On October 8, 2025, SoftBank Group announced its acquisition of Swiss multinational ABB’s robotics division for approximately $5.375 billion. The deal is a strategic milestone under SoftBank’s “Physical AI” vision—bringing artificial intelligence out of the cloud and into the real world through intelligent machines.
Deal Overview and Background
- Through this acquisition, SoftBank aims to merge its AI investment ecosystem with ABB’s globally recognized industrial robotics technology.
- ABB had initially planned to spin off and list the robotics unit but shifted to a sale after SoftBank’s proposal.
- The transaction, valued at $5.375 billion, is expected to close in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals in the EU, U.S., and China.
SoftBank’s Background: From AI Investor to “Physical AI” Integrator
SoftBank has long been an aggressive investor in AI and frontier technologies. CEO Masayoshi Son has identified “Physical AI” as the next major frontier and has focused investment in four areas: AI chips, AI robotics, AI data centers, and sustainable energy.
SoftBank previously launched the humanoid robot Pepper and invested in Berkshire Grey and AutoStore. By acquiring ABB’s robotics business, SoftBank is evolving from a financial backer into an orchestrator of the global AI robotics ecosystem.
ABB’s Strategic Shift: Refocusing on Core Businesses
Founded in 1988, ABB Ltd. is a global leader in electrification and industrial automation, with over 110,000 employees in 110+ countries. While its robotics division generated $2.3 billion in revenue in 2024, it had limited synergy with ABB’s other business units.
The board described the sale as a decision that “unlocks immediate shareholder value” and allows ABB to reinvest in its core sectors. CEO Björn Rosengren called SoftBank “an ideal partner for the AI era,” expressing optimism for enhanced global competitiveness through this partnership.
Purpose and Expected Synergies
For SoftBank
The acquisition enables SoftBank to accelerate the development of AI-powered robots with learning and perception capabilities, leveraging ABB’s global customer base and sales channels. This aligns with SoftBank’s ambition to expand AI applications in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and construction.
For ABB
Partnering with SoftBank provides opportunities to integrate advanced AI technology into ABB’s robotics portfolio while using the proceeds to strengthen its core operations and pursue new investments.
Deal Structure and Terms
- Transaction Value: $5.375 billion
- Structure: ABB will carve out the robotics business into a new entity; SoftBank will acquire 100% of its shares via a subsidiary
- Payment: Cash (no stock exchange)
- Adjustments: Standard net debt and working capital adjustments
- Post-Acquisition: The robotics unit will become a wholly owned subsidiary of SoftBank
Timeline
| Event | Date | Note |
| Board Approval | Sept 22, 2025 (JST) | Approved by SoftBank’s board |
| Signing & Announcement | Oct 8, 2025 (CET) | Formal agreement signed |
| Expected Closing | 2H 2026 | Subject to global regulatory approval |
Conclusion: SoftBank’s “Second AI Revolution”
This acquisition symbolizes SoftBank’s transformation from an AI investor to a direct operator in the AI robotics industry. Upon completion, SoftBank will control a full value chain—from AI technologies to physical implementations—strengthening its global leadership in the AI robotics market. The “AI × Robotics” era is no longer a vision of the future—it’s becoming reality.
