SoftBank's Robotics Push: Talks Heat Up with 1X Technologies Acquisition

SoftBank is in talks to acquire majority control of 1X Technologies, a maker of humanoid robots backed by OpenAI. The deal could value 1X at around $6 billion, significantly lower than its previous target valuation of $10 billion.

Last fall, 1X tried to raise $1 billion but only secured less than half that amount, indicating a cooling interest in humanoid robotics startups.

SoftBank's acquisition of ABB's robotics unit for $5.375 billion is also progressing and expected to finalize by mid-to-late 2026. The deal will give SoftBank exposure across both consumer-facing androids and factory-floor automation.