Chinese AI startup Manus has reportedly secured $75 million in funding led by Benchmark, placing its valuation at approximately $500 million, according to Bloomberg. This significant round of investment is said to have quintupled the company's previous valuation, which was bolstered by earlier funding from notable investors such as Tencent and HSG (formerly Sequoia China), amounting to over $10 million. Manus is primarily focused on developing tools for AI agents capable of performing a variety of tasks. The company gained attention in March with the launch of a demo showcasing its general AI agent. However, initial tests conducted by TechCrunch found that the agent’s performance did not fully meet the advertised standards. Despite this, Manus has since rolled out paid subscription plans ranging from $39 to $199 per month. The new funding will be used to expand the company's presence into new markets, including the United States, Japan, and the Middle East. This strategic move aims to broaden the reach and application of Manus' AI technologies, potentially tapping into more diverse and lucrative opportunities. Benchmark's substantial investment in Manus underscores the growing interest and potential in AI agent technology. As AI continues to evolve, companies like Manus are at the forefront of developing tools that can automate complex tasks, from customer service to data analysis, making them valuable players in the global tech landscape.