SoftBank Just Bought ABB’s Robotics Business for $5.4 Billion — Here’s Why It Matters
ABB, the Swiss engineering powerhouse, is selling its entire robotics division to SoftBank for a staggering $5.4 billion. It’s one of the biggest moves in industrial automation this year — and it could reshape the future of AI-powered manufacturing.
ABB, known for its automation systems and factory tech, decided not to spin off its robotics arm as originally planned. Instead, it’s making a clean exit — handing the division over to SoftBank for around $5.375 billion in cash.
The deal is expected to close in mid-to-late 2026, pending regulatory approval in the U.S., Europe, and China. ABB says it will record a $2.4 billion pre-tax gain, with net cash proceeds of about $5.3 billion after costs.
For SoftBank, this acquisition strengthens its vision of “Physical AI” — combining artificial intelligence with robotics. It already owns stakes in several tech and AI firms, and ABB’s industrial robots will give it a serious edge in the physical automation space.
For ABB, this sale means focus. Robotics made up only about 7% of its 2024 revenue, with margins near 12%, so the company plans to reinvest in higher-growth areas and return more money to shareholders through dividends and buybacks.
If you’re an investor, this could be a positive sign — ABB becomes leaner and potentially more profitable, while SoftBank doubles down on the AI-driven robotics revolution.
If you work in manufacturing or tech, expect faster robot innovation and possibly more accessible automation.
And that’s your robot news update for today!. If you’re curious about how robotics can transform your business, head over to Robot Philosophy website to join the waiting list for the workshops, or to speak with the team directly about robotics.
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