ABB is reportedly exploring strategic options for its robotics division, including a potential spinoff or sale valued at over $3.5 billion, as the company refocuses on high-growth sectors like electrification driven by AI infrastructure demands. According to Bloomberg, ABB is working with Bank of America and UBS to evaluate the move, which could take place as early as Q2 2026.
The robotics unit, comprising two-thirds of ABB’s robotics and discrete automation segment, employs 7,000 people across manufacturing hubs in Sweden, China, and the U.S.. CEO Morten Wierod has emphasized a pivot toward more profitable business lines, particularly those benefiting from the data center boom spurred by AI adoption.
While ABB has publicly confirmed its intention to explore a spinoff, sources suggest a full sale remains on the table.
This move comes as interest in robotics accelerates globally. Startups like Figure, backed by OpenAI, are developing humanoid robots capable of understanding voice commands and adapting to unfamiliar tasks — though challenges persist. Experts note that while industrial robots excel in repetitive, structured environments, humanoid robots still struggle in dynamic household settings, highlighting the importance of advanced AI integration.
Industry voices, including Rodney Brooks of Robust AI and Jenny Shern of NexCOBOT, agree that the gap between human dexterity and robotic capability remains wide, particularly outside factory floors. ABB’s decision reflects not only the commercial pressure to realign with profitable sectors, but also the evolving role of robotics as AI technologies reshape the industrial landscape.
