SoftBank is negotiating a majority stake in humanoid robot developer 1X Technologies.
The potential deal values the startup at approximately $6 billion. Talks remain ongoing and may not result in a final agreement.
The investment signals SoftBank’s expanding footprint in the robotics and AI sectors. OpenAI-backed 1X previously sought to raise $1 billion in capital. That unsuccessful funding round targeted a $10 billion valuation for 2025.
OpenAI reportedly considered acquiring 1X before abandoning the plan. SoftBank capital would fund the mass production of bipedal androids named NEO. These robots serve both residential and commercial applications.