Samsung Enters the Humanoid Robot Race

Samsung plans to combine its AI and software with Rainbow Robotics technology to accelerate development

Liz Hughes, Editor, IoT World Today

January 3, 2025

2 Min Read
Rainbow Robotics

Samsung has entered the humanoid robot business announcing it has become the largest shareholder in Rainbow Robotics to “accelerate future robot development such as humanoid robots.”

In the year-end announcement, Samsung said it initially purchased a 14.7% stake in the Korean robotics company in 2023, investing nearly $59 million and now exercised a call option to raise its stake to 35%. 

Additionally, Samsung said Rainbow Robotics plan to incorporate it in its consolidated financial statements.

Samsung said the collaboration would allow it to further strengthen its foundation in developing advanced robot technology. 

Founded in 2011 by Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology’s (KAIST) Humanoid Robot Research Center researchers, Rainbow Robotics developed the country’s first humanoid robot named Hubo. 

“By combining Samsung Electronics’ AI and software technology with Rainbow Robotics’ robotics technology, the collaboration plans to accelerate the development of intelligent advanced humanoids,” Samsung said. 

Samsung said it will use Rainbow Robotics’ robots in manufacturing and logistics. 

“These robots can greatly improve their work capabilities by learning and analyzing situational data and environmental variables that occur in the field through AI algorithms,” Samsung said. “Rainbow Robotics is expected to actively enter overseas markets by utilizing Samsung’s global sales infrastructure.”

Related:First Korean-Designed Two-Armed Robot Launched

Along with the Rainbow Robotics announcement, Samsung announced it is establishing a Future Robotics Office that will report directly to the CEO and focus on robotic development including humanoids to strengthen competitiveness in emerging technologies for future robots that will evolve existing paradigms and become a major growth driver.

Founding member of Rainbow Robotics and honorary professor at KAIST Jun-Ho Oh was named to head the new office and serve as an advisor to Samsung. 

About the Author

Liz Hughes

Editor, IoT World Today, IoT World Today

Liz Hughes is an award-winning digital media editor with more than two decades of experience in newspaper, magazine and online media industries. 

A proven digital media strategist and editor, Liz has produced content and offered editorial support and leadership for a variety of web publications, including Fast Company, NBC Boston, Street Fight, QuinStreet, WTWH Media, AOL/Patch Media and Design News.

A skilled social media strategist experienced in developing and maintaining an audience across multiple platforms and brands, Liz also enjoys sharing her knowledge and expertise to help businesses small and large.

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