ABB has agreed to sell its robotics business to SoftBank Group for approximately $5.375 billion (about RMB 38.2 billion). The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approval.

On the announcement day, SoftBank shares rose sharply, reflecting market optimism about its AI and robotics strategy.

SoftBank Bets On Physical AI

SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son described “Physical AI” as the company’s next frontier, focusing on embedding artificial intelligence into real-world machines and robotics systems.

The acquisition is seen as a key step in building a full-stack AI ecosystem that connects computing power, models, and robotics applications.

ABB Exits Robotics Amid Market Pressure

ABB initially planned to spin off its robotics division via IPO in 2026, but later agreed to a full cash acquisition by SoftBank.

The robotics unit has faced declining profitability, with a 39% profit drop in 2024, driven by weak demand in automotive and electronics industries and rising global competition.

Chinese robotics companies have also rapidly increased market share, intensifying pricing pressure on global players.

AI And Industry Disruption Reshape Robotics

The robotics sector is shifting from hardware-driven competition to AI-driven intelligence, with new players leveraging large models and software platforms.

In response, ABB is refocusing on electrification, process automation, and motion control, effectively exiting standalone robotics.

SoftBank Builds A Full AI Ecosystem

SoftBank has been expanding across chips, infrastructure, and AI platforms, investing in companies like Nvidia, TSMC, Intel, and OpenAI-related infrastructure projects.

By acquiring ABB Robotics, SoftBank gains access to real-world industrial data, enabling a closed-loop system of execution and AI learning for embodied intelligence.

Industry Restructuring Accelerates

The acquisition is expected to accelerate consolidation in the robotics industry as global tech giants strengthen their AI robotics strategies.

However, SoftBank still faces the challenge of integrating a complex industrial business while pursuing its broader AI ambitions.