SoftBank Group has announced plans to acquire ABB’s robotics division in a landmark $5.4 billion deal, marking one of its largest investments in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years. The acquisition represents a pivotal moment in SoftBank’s strategy to establish global leadership in automation, robotics, and intelligent systems.
SoftBank Expands Its Robotics and AI Ecosystem
Under the agreement, SoftBank will take full ownership of ABB’s renowned robotics arm — a world leader in industrial automation and factory robotics. ABB’s robotics division is celebrated for its precision machinery and AI-powered manufacturing solutions used across automotive, electronics, and logistics industries.
SoftBank said the move aligns with its long-term mission to create a “connected intelligent ecosystem” that merges robotics, AI, and data to transform the interaction between humans and machines.
“Robotics represents the foundation of the next industrial revolution,” SoftBank stated. “By combining ABB’s advanced robotics technology with our AI capabilities and global reach, we aim to accelerate innovation and deliver smart automation solutions across multiple sectors.”
A Strategic Move Amid Rising Global Automation Competition
The deal comes as companies worldwide race to automate operations amid labor shortages and growing pressure for efficiency and sustainability. ABB’s robotics business, headquartered in Zurich, has played a central role in developing collaborative robots (cobots) and AI-enabled automation tools designed for safe and seamless interaction with human workers.
Industry experts say SoftBank’s acquisition could significantly strengthen its robotics portfolio, which already includes investments in Boston Dynamics, Bear Robotics, and various AI-driven logistics and industrial startups.
“This move gives SoftBank a vertically integrated advantage — from hardware to AI software,” said one robotics analyst. “It’s a signal that SoftBank intends to dominate the next wave of intelligent automation.”
ABB Refocuses on Energy and Digital Transformation
For ABB, the sale allows the Swiss engineering giant to double down on its electrification, digital energy, and motion control divisions — areas that are seeing rapid growth as the global energy transition accelerates. ABB executives noted that while the robotics division has been a cornerstone of its innovation, shifting focus to energy technologies aligns better with long-term market dynamics.
Deal Expected to Close in 2026
The transaction, pending regulatory approvals, is expected to close by mid-2026. Once finalized, ABB’s robotics operations will be integrated under the SoftBank Robotics brand, with plans to expand across Asia, Europe, and North America.
If approved, the acquisition would rank among the largest robotics deals in history, positioning SoftBank as a global powerhouse in the convergence of AI, robotics, and intelligent automation.
