SoftBank is acquiring the robotics division of ABB Group in a deal worth $5.375 billion. Softbank's plan is to combine ABB Robotics with its physical AI assets.

With the move, SoftBank has a base of robotics customers and manufactures to expand its physical AI ambitions. ABB will complement SoftBank's robotics stable of companies: SoftBank Robotics Group Corp., Berkshire Grey, Inc., AutoStore Holdings Ltd., Agile Robots SE, and Skild AI.

SoftBank said that it will create a new holding company focused on its robotics businesses.

ABB was planning to spin off its robotics division. The deal is expected to close in mid- to late-2026.

SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son said ABB Robotics will speed up its physical AI ambitions. "SoftBank's next frontier is Physical AI. Together with ABB Robotics, we will unite world-class technology and talent under our shared vision to fuse Artificial Super Intelligence and robotics -- driving a groundbreaking evolution that will propel humanity forward," said Son.

ABB Robotics has 7,000 workers and 2024 revenue of $2.3 billion, or 7% of ABB Group's total revenue.

In a statement, SoftBank said its mission is "actively investing and expanding its businesses in four essential areas: (i) AI chips, (ii) AI robots, (iii) AI data centers, and (iv) energy, as well as investing in companies at the forefront of generative AI."