Manus' cofounder shared 2 photos showing he has something in common with Meta's Mark Zuckerberg (www.businessinsider.com)

Meta has announced its acquisition of Manus, a startup recognized for developing a "general-purpose" AI agent capable of performing tasks autonomously, with the deal reportedly exceeding $2 billion. Ji Yichao, cofounder and chief scientist of Manus, drew attention by sharing images that highlight a parallel between himself and Meta cofounder Mark Zuckerberg, as both dropped out of college to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Ji’s post, featuring photos taken in the same room where Zuckerberg began developing Facebook, underscores a compelling narrative of ambition and innovation shared by many tech leaders, particularly within Meta. This acquisition emphasizes a growing trend in the AI/ML landscape, where traditional educational paths are increasingly deemed less crucial for success. As scrutiny of college degrees intensifies, especially among younger generations, the tech industry continues to see numerous successful figures—like Ji and Zuckerberg—who forgo formal degrees to launch impactful companies. Manus, launched in March and currently generating over $100 million in annual recurring revenue, will continue to operate its subscription model while integrating its technology into Meta’s ecosystem. This move signifies Meta's commitment to enhancing its AI capabilities, aligning with broader shifts in the workforce influenced by technological advancements.