South Korean Electronics Giant Invests KRW 267 Billion to Acquire 35% Stake in Robotics Maker
In a significant move to strengthen its robotic department and accelerate the development of humanoid robots, Samsung Electronics has acquired a 20.3% stake in South Korea-based robotics maker Rainbow Robotics. The electronics giant now holds an impressive 35% stake in the company, up from its previous holding of 14.7%, for approximately KRW 267 billion (around $181 billion).
Deal to Bolster Robotic Department and Speed Up Humanoid Robot Development
The acquisition is a strategic move by Samsung to bolster its robotic department and speed up the development of humanoid robots that can perform tasks autonomously. The company plans to integrate Rainbow Robotics as a subsidiary, with the deal expected to be completed in February 2025.
Future Robotics Office Established to Oversee Robotics Initiatives
As part of the deal, Samsung has also announced the establishment of a Future Robotics Office, which will directly report to the chief executive officer. This new office will oversee robotics initiatives and drive innovation in the field.
Rainbow Robotics’ Expertise in Humanoid Robot Development
Founded in 2011 by researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), Rainbow Robotics has developed innovative humanoid robots with dual-arm mobile manipulators and autonomous mobile robots for applications in manufacturing and logistics. The company currently employs 86 personnel.
Dr. Jun-ho Oh to Lead Future Robotics Office and Advise Samsung
The founding member of Rainbow, Dr. Jun-ho Oh, will continue to lead the robotics company as an honorary professor at KAIST and will also assume a new role as head of the Future Robotics Office at Samsung. He will serve as an adviser to the company’s robotic department.
Samsung’s Growing Interest in Humanoid Robots
With this acquisition, Samsung joins other major tech companies in the quest to develop humanoid robots that can perform tasks autonomously. Microsoft and OpenAI are planning to use their technology for a humanoid robot, while Tesla recently showcased its Optimus robot. Nvidia is also set to release a new line of compact computers called Jetson Thor for humanoid robots next year.
Growing Demand for Robotics and AI Solutions
The growing demand for robotics and AI solutions has led Samsung to prioritize investments in these areas. In 2022, the company identified robotics, along with AI, 5G, and automotive electronics, as key parts of its future initiatives, hinting at potential acquisitions in these fields.
Conclusion
Samsung’s acquisition of a significant stake in Rainbow Robotics marks an important milestone in the development of humanoid robots that can perform tasks autonomously. With this move, Samsung is positioning itself to be at the forefront of robotics innovation and is poised to accelerate its progress in developing cutting-edge robotic solutions.
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