AI startup Manus is set to resume operating as an independent company after its proposed deal with Meta began to unravel amid increasing regulatory scrutiny of Chinese artificial intelligence companies. Chinese AI startups have increasingly attracted interest from major US technology companies, but deals involving advanced AI technology face greater regulatory attention. For Manus, the unwinding of the Meta deal means the company must now chart an independent path. Manus Faces a New FutureManus became one of the most closely watched AI startups after gaining attention for its AI agent technology. For AI startups, regulatory compliance is becoming just as important as developing powerful models and products.