Samsung Makes Strategic Investment in Rainbow Robotics for Expanded Reach in Humanoid Robotics Development

Samsung Electronics has announced a significant deal, acquiring a 35% stake in Rainbow Robotics for KRW 267 billion (approximately $181 million). The South Korean electronics giant will increase its existing 14.7% stake to become the largest shareholder of the robotics company.

The acquisition is part of Samsung’s efforts to bolster its robotics department and accelerate the development of humanoid robots. The deal, which is expected to be completed in February 2025, also enables Rainbow Robotics to expand into new overseas markets by leveraging Samsung’s global reach.

As a result of the acquisition, Rainbow Robotics will become a subsidiary of Samsung, and the company’s leadership will work closely with Samsung’s executives. Dr. Jun-ho Oh, the founding member of Rainbow Robotics and its former largest shareholder, has agreed to stay on board and lead a new initiative called the Future Robotics Office at Samsung, where he will also serve as an advisor.

The acquisition is significant not only for Samsung but also for the robotics industry as a whole. The deal marks yet another major player entering the field of humanoid robots that can operate autonomously. Other companies, such as Microsoft and OpenAI, are also working on similar projects, including the development of autonomous robots. Even Tesla showcased its own take on robots, Optimus, earlier this year. Nvidia is also set to release a new line of compact computers for humanoid robots called Jetson Thor next year.

As part of its efforts to expand into robotics, Samsung previously stated that robotics, along with AI, 5G, and automotive electronics, would be a key part of its future initiatives. It seems that the company has now taken concrete steps towards achieving this goal.

Source: techcrunch.com