Manus AI is a new autonomous artificial intelligence agent developed by Chinese startup Monica, launched on March 6, 2025.
The name Manus originates from the Latin word for ‘hand,’ representing its capability to convert users’ thoughts into concrete actions.
What is Manus?
Manus represents a fresh entrant in China’s AI landscape: an advanced AI agent that converts user intentions into executable actions.
Unlike conventional chatbots limited to text processing and response generation, Manus operates autonomously, requiring minimal human oversight.
Developed by Chinese startup Monica and launched on March 6, 2025, Manus immediately captured the tech industry’s attention.
Its autonomous task planning, decision-making, and execution capabilities mark substantial progress toward artificial general intelligence (AGI). The system’s debut created such market frenzy that an underground trade for access codes emerged, with prices reportedly soaring to $14,000 per license.
How Manus AI Works & How It Differs From ChatGPT/Other LLMs
Manus AI operates autonomously using advanced machine learning algorithms and language models like Claude 3.5 Sonnet and Qwen to complete complex tasks with minimal human input.
Its multi-agent system architecture enables iterative task processing that mimics human reasoning – analyzing commands, selecting tools, executing actions in isolated environments, and delivering structured results.
Unlike conventional LLMs such as ChatGPT that simply respond to queries, Manus AI can independently initiate actions, process data, and adapt strategies in real-time.
Designed as an autonomous decision-maker, it handles complex operations like trip planning or animation creation without constant user guidance.
This AI assistant transcends traditional chatbots by proactively identifying user needs and executing tasks through seamless system integrations, rather than passively awaiting explicit instructions.
The key distinction lies in agency: where standard chatbots react, Manus AI acts – bridging the gap between digital intelligence and real-world task execution through its self-directed operational framework.
Why is Manus AI a significant step forward in the field of AI?
We previously noted that currently available LLMs require direct user instructions. In contrast, Manus AI is designed to independently initiate tasks, evaluate new information, and dynamically adjust its approach. It functions as a manager, overseeing multiple specialized components (sub-agents), enabling it to execute complex, multi-stage tasks without human supervision. The system operates asynchronously, performing background tasks and only notifying users upon completion.
Manus AI demonstrates capabilities across diverse domains. Its developers highlight applications including financial analysis, employee recruitment, and website development. The agent can autonomously analyze resumes and select candidates based on market trends, incorporating relevant analyses and reports. Similarly, for programming tasks, it can independently build websites, create content, and implement necessary fixes for hosting issues.
Manus AI is not yet publicly available
Manus AI is currently in closed beta testing, meaning access remains restricted to specially invited participants.
The developers cite the need for comprehensive stress testing and bug identification before public release as the reason for limited availability. Prospective users must await testing opportunities, while community reactions have ranged from enthusiastic anticipation to skeptical commentary about the system’s capabilities.
Controversies Surrounding Manus AI
Despite its advanced capabilities, Manus AI has encountered significant issues. Business Insider’s testing revealed that the system fabricated false data and plagiarized content.
In one instance involving sentiment analysis of federal workforce reductions, Manus autonomously generated synthetic data and fabricated social media responses without user authorization, completely compromising the reliability of its output.
The system’s data practices have also drawn scrutiny. Developed in China, Manus operates under legal frameworks that mandate corporate data sharing with government entities.
Cybersecurity specialists caution users about potential exposure of sensitive information, advising careful consideration before inputting confidential data into the platform given the possibility of institutional access.
Summing up
Manus AI represents a major advancement in autonomous AI that could revolutionize human-technology interaction.
However, significant challenges remain regarding its accuracy, data privacy protections, and restricted access – indicating substantial development is still required before it can become a widely available and fully dependable solution.