SoftBank Group is reportedly in advanced discussions to purchase a majority stake in 1X Technologies, a Bengaluru‑based developer of humanoid robots that counts OpenAI among its investors. The potential transaction would value the startup at about $6 billion, according to people familiar with the negotiations, as reported by The Information and cited by Reuters.
Background on 1X and its investors
Founded to create advanced, human‑like robots for a range of commercial applications, 1X Technologies secured an investment from OpenAI in 2023 through the OpenAI Startup Fund. The funding round also included participation from Tiger Global Management and a consortium of Norway‑based investors, underscoring the global interest in the company’s technology.
SoftBank’s broader robotics strategy
The prospective 1X deal fits within SoftBank’s larger push into the robotics sector. Last year the Japanese conglomerate completed a $5.4 billion acquisition of the robotics business of Swiss engineering firm ABB, expanding its portfolio of industrial and service‑robot offerings. By adding a humanoid‑robot specialist, SoftBank aims to diversify its robotics holdings and position itself at the forefront of next‑generation automation.
Potential impact and next steps
If the talks conclude successfully, SoftBank would gain a controlling interest in 1X, giving it direct influence over the company’s product roadmap and market expansion. Analysts note that a $6 billion valuation reflects strong confidence in the commercial viability of humanoid robots, especially as industries such as logistics, healthcare, and customer service explore automation solutions.
Both SoftBank and 1X have declined to comment on the negotiations, and Reuters was unable to independently verify the report at the time of publication. The parties indicated that discussions are ongoing and that the terms could evolve before any definitive agreement is reached.
Industry context
The robotics market has seen accelerated growth in recent years, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, sensor technology, and manufacturing processes. Companies that can combine sophisticated AI with physical robot platforms are attracting significant capital, as they promise to reshape labor‑intensive sectors and address workforce shortages.
SoftBank’s interest in 1X underscores a strategic bet that humanoid robots will move beyond research prototypes to become viable commercial products. The outcome of these talks will be closely watched by investors, technology firms, and policymakers who are monitoring the evolving landscape of automation and its implications for the U.S. workforce and global supply chains.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
