SoftBank Group has made a bold move with the SoftBank ABB Robotics Acquisition, a $5.4 billion deal marking a major step in the global AI and robotics race. By acquiring ABB’s robotics unit, SoftBank aims to speed up the development of physical AI and Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI). This acquisition shows SoftBank’s firm commitment to leading the next wave of intelligent automation.
The SoftBank ABB Robotics Acquisition is a key milestone for both companies. ABB has long been a leader in industrial and collaborative robots used by manufacturers worldwide. Through this deal, SoftBank will add around 7,000 ABB employees to its growing AI and robotics ecosystem. While SoftBank expands its reach, ABB plans to focus more on electrification and automation technologies.
ABB’s decision to sell its robotics division reflects a strategic shift in its long-term goals. Originally, ABB wanted to spin off its robotics arm into a separate company, but SoftBank’s offer provided better value. ABB Robotics generated $2.3 billion in 2024 revenue but faced profit challenges and heavy competition. The $5.3 billion sale now gives ABB more flexibility to strengthen its core business.
For SoftBank, the SoftBank ABB Robotics Acquisition aligns closely with CEO Masayoshi Son’s vision of Artificial Super Intelligence — AI systems far more advanced than human intelligence. Combining ABB’s robotics expertise with SoftBank’s AI investments could speed up the creation of smarter, more capable machines. This merger moves SoftBank one step closer to leading the future of intelligent automation.
SoftBank’s journey in robotics began long ago. From acquiring Aldebaran Robotics in 2012 to launching the humanoid robot Pepper, the company has consistently explored ways to merge AI with robotics. While not all efforts succeeded, each taught valuable lessons. The SoftBank ABB Robotics Acquisition now represents SoftBank’s largest and most confident step toward technological leadership.
Beyond expanding its portfolio, the deal enhances SoftBank’s global influence in the AI and robotics field. With existing stakes in Arm, AutoStore, and Agile Robots, adding ABB strengthens its technological advantage. ABB’s industrial presence will also help bring AI-driven solutions into manufacturing, logistics, and human collaboration, fueling faster innovation.
Experts see the SoftBank ABB Robotics Acquisition as a game-changing moment in AI and robotics convergence. With automation reshaping industries globally, SoftBank now stands at the center of this transformation. The partnership is expected to advance industrial robotics, autonomous systems, and smart cobots designed to work safely alongside humans.
For ABB, the sale provides clarity and financial stability. It can now focus more sharply on core areas like electrification, smart energy, and automation technologies. Meanwhile, SoftBank gains a world-class robotics team and technologies, paving the way for future breakthroughs. This win-win deal benefits both companies and their long-term strategies.
Pending regulatory approval across the US, EU, and China, the transaction is expected to close by mid-to-late 2026. ABB CEO Morten Wierod expressed confidence that SoftBank will guide the robotics division into a new era of growth and innovation. SoftBank, in turn, views the acquisition as a milestone in its mission to lead the AI revolution.
In the end, the SoftBank ABB Robotics Acquisition is not just a business deal — it marks a major shift in global technology leadership. By bringing together ABB’s robotics mastery and SoftBank’s AI vision, the partnership sets the stage for smarter automation and future-ready industries. This strategic move positions SoftBank at the heart of the AI-driven future of robotics.