ABB Sells Robotics Arm to SoftBank for $5.4B in Strategic Realignment

SoftBank Group has agreed to buy ABB’s Robotics division for $5.38 billion, ending ABB’s plan to spin the business off in 2026. The sale, announced in October 2025, is expected to close by mid-2026.

The move gives SoftBank a major foothold in industrial automation as it pivots toward “physical AI” — technology that merges artificial intelligence with robotics and embodied systems. The acquisition will expand SoftBank’s robotics portfolio, which already includes firms such as Berkshire Grey and AutoStore.

For ABB, the decision reflects a shift under new CEO Morten WierodDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → to simplify operations and improve returns. Analysts see the sale as recognition that the robotics unit’s cyclical, capital-intensive profile no longer aligns with ABB’s broader strategic focus.

Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Zurich, ABB Robotics is a global leader in industrial and collaborative robots, machine automation, and software systems, with 7,000 employees worldwide. Its flagship products — including articulated arms, mobile robots, and the OmniCore control platform — serve industries ranging from automotive and logistics to electronics and healthcare.

SoftBank plans to operate ABB Robotics as an independent entity led by current division head Marc SeguraDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →. The company says the acquisition will accelerate its long-term goal of integrating AI with physical systems, creating what founder Masayoshi SonDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → calls “the next computing frontier.”

For ABB, the sale consolidates its position around three high-margin divisions — Electrification, Motion, and Process Automation — while freeing capital for further investment.

Sources:
ABB
Softbank
CNBC
The Wall Street Journal
Reuters

J.V.