Samsung’s Bold Move into Robotics: A Game-Changer?
In a significant strategic shift, Samsung Electronics has become the leading shareholder of Rainbow Robotics, a prominent South Korean robotics firm. By increasing its stake from 14.7% to a commanding 35% for KRW 267 billion (approximately $181 billion), Samsung is betting big on the future of robotics.
The electronics powerhouse initially invested KRW 86.8 billion for a 14.7% stake earlier in 2023. This move is part of Samsung’s broader strategy to enhance its robotics division and accelerate the development of humanoid robots.
- Integration and Expansion: Rainbow Robotics will become a subsidiary of Samsung, with the acquisition expected to finalize by February 2025.
- New Initiatives: A Future Robotics Office will be established, reporting directly to Samsung’s CEO, aiming to spearhead innovation in the field.
- Global Reach: Leveraging Samsung’s extensive network, Rainbow Robotics is poised to expand into international markets.
“This acquisition aligns with our vision to make robotics an integral part of our future initiatives, alongside AI, 5G, and automotive electronics,” stated a Samsung spokesperson.
{Samsung Electronics}
Founded in 2011 by KAIST researchers, Rainbow Robotics is known for developing advanced dual-arm mobile manipulators and autonomous robots for manufacturing and logistics sectors. The company employs 86 skilled professionals.
Dr. Jun-ho Oh, a founding member and former largest shareholder of Rainbow Robotics, will remain onboard to lead the newly established Future Robotics Office at Samsung. His expertise will be invaluable as he also serves as an advisor in this new venture.
This move places Samsung squarely in the race toward developing humanoid robots that can operate autonomously. They join other tech giants like Microsoft and OpenAI, who are planning similar ventures, and Tesla, which recently revealed its own robot model, Optimus. Nvidia is also set to release Jetson Thor compact computers designed for humanoid robots next year.
In 2022, Samsung had already signaled that robotics would play a critical role in its future alongside AI and other technologies. This acquisition could be just the beginning of more strategic moves in these innovative fields.
