Samsung has taken a major step in its robotics initiatives by becoming the principal shareholder in Rainbow Robotics, a South Korean firm. The electronics leader raised its ownership from 14.7% to 35%, investing KRW 267 billion (around $181 billion). This represents a crucial advancement in Samsung’s dedication to enhancing its robotics division and hastening the progress of humanoid robots.

The acquisition will result in Rainbow Robotics being integrated as a subsidiary of Samsung, with the transaction expected to be completed by February 2025. Alongside this strategic transition, Samsung plans to create a specialized Future Robotics Office that will report directly to the CEO. This new effort highlights the company’s focus on robotics as a vital component of its future innovation agenda.

Founded in 2011 by researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Rainbow Robotics focuses on dual-arm mobile manipulators and autonomous mobile robots designed for manufacturing and logistics. The company, with a workforce of 86 employees, has gained recognition for its advanced technologies. Dr. Jun-ho Oh, one of the founders and an honorary professor at KAIST, will continue to play an active role as an advisor and head of the newly established Future Robotics Office at Samsung.

This acquisition is projected to position Rainbow Robotics for global market expansion, utilizing Samsung’s extensive international reach and resources. Furthermore, this strategic maneuver places Samsung in direct competition with other significant players in the rapidly growing humanoid robotics industry.

Companies like Tesla, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Nvidia have all demonstrated their strides in humanoid robotics, with offerings such as Tesla’s Optimus robot and Nvidia’s forthcoming

Jetson Thor compact computers for use in robotics. The heightened interest underscores the competitive race among tech giants to create autonomous robots capable of executing intricate tasks.

Samsung has previously recognized robotics, along with AI, 5G, and automotive electronics, as critical growth sectors. This recent investment is consistent with the company’s 2022 remarks suggesting additional acquisitions and advancements in these fields.

By making this strategic move, Samsung fortifies its standing in the robotics industry, indicating its ambition to take the lead in the field and influence the future of humanoid robotics.