Samsung Electronics, which invested 86.8 billion KRW to acquire a 14.7% stake in Rainbow Robotics, has exercised its call option. (Image courtesy of Rainbow Robotics webpage)
SEOUL, Jan. 1 (Korea Bizwire) — Samsung Electronics has expanded its stake in robotics company Rainbow Robotics to 35%, becoming its largest shareholder and solidifying its commitment to robotics as a key driver of future growth.
The move, announced on December 31, underscores Samsung’s ambition to dominate the global robotics market while integrating advanced automation across its operations.
Rainbow Robotics, known for developing bipedal and quadrupedal robots, is poised to benefit from Samsung’s cutting-edge AI and software technologies.
This partnership aims to enhance Samsung’s capabilities in creating next-generation robots, including intelligent humanoid systems capable of mimicking human thought and behavior.
Rainbow Robotics’ Bipedal Robot ‘Hubo 2′ (Image courtesy of Rainbow Robotics)
Strategic Investments and Market Potential
The global robotics market, valued at $33.2 billion in 2021, is projected to grow to $74.1 billion by 2026, according to the Korea Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association.
Samsung plans to leverage Rainbow Robotics’ expertise alongside its own AI advancements to accelerate development in this high-growth sector, particularly in humanoid robotics, which Goldman Sachs predicts will reach $38 billion by 2035.
To support its robotics ambitions, Samsung has restructured its internal teams, creating the Future Robotics Task Force under the direct supervision of its CEO. Additionally, senior executives from Samsung now hold board positions at Rainbow Robotics, signaling deeper integration and alignment between the two companies.
Expanding Applications and Global Reach
Samsung’s collaboration with Rainbow Robotics extends beyond humanoids. The robotics firm’s technologies, such as the dual-arm mobile robot “RB-Y1,” are being tested for use in Samsung’s semiconductor and appliance production lines.
These robots are designed to perform tasks traditionally done by humans, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
Samsung has also invested in global humanoid robotics firms, including Figure.AI and 1X Technologies, through its venture arm, Samsung Next. These investments aim to strengthen Samsung’s global competitiveness in robotics.
Rainbow Robotics’ Mobile Dual-Arm Robot ‘RB-Y1′
Future Implications
Some industry analysts speculate that Rainbow Robotics could eventually adopt the Samsung brand, reflecting its deepening ties and potential for international expansion.
“As Rainbow Robotics leverages Samsung’s backing to penetrate global markets, the brand could align more closely with Samsung in the future,” one industry expert noted.
Founded in 2011 by researchers from KAIST’s Hubo Lab, Rainbow Robotics developed South Korea’s first bipedal robot, Hubo. The company continues to innovate in bipedal, quadrupedal, and collaborative robotics, aligning closely with Samsung’s vision of a future defined by intelligent machines.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
