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Kiwibot will add mental property from AUTO Mobility Options to its supply robotic portfolio. Supply: Kiwibot

Consolidation amongst cell robotic suppliers is just not restricted to warehouses. Kiwibot as we speak introduced that it has acquired AUTO Mobility Options Co.

“This strategic collaboration marks a major milestone in each firms’ journeys in the direction of innovation and safeguarding privateness within the robotics trade, notably for clever robots sourced from China and deployed within the Western markets,” Kiwibot said.

“The acquisition of AUTO is a game-changer for us, bringing a wealth of technological innovation and a robust patent portfolio that can considerably improve our cybersecurity measures for AI-powered robotics,” asserted Felipe Chavez, founder and CEO of Kiwibot. “This transfer not solely strengthens our place out there, but additionally connects the manufacturing experience from Asia with the AI growth within the West securely.”

Kiwibot develops supply robots

Berkeley, Calif.-based Kiwibot has developed autonomous robots utilizing synthetic intelligence. The firm claimed that it’s a market chief of robotic deliveries on U.S. school campuses.

Since 2017, Kiwibot stated it has efficiently deployed robots throughout the U.S., Dubai, and Saudi Arabia. In 2020, it raised pre-seed funding and was an early visitor on The Robotic Report Podcast. It raised $10 million for deliveries as a service (DaaS) in December 2023.

“Kiwibot is actively exploring alternatives to develop our robotic supply companies past school campuses,” Chavez informed The Robotic Report. “We are going to quickly announce prospects in two totally different classes.”

Study from Agility Robotics, Amazon, Disney, Teradyne and lots of extra.

AUTO brings cybersecurity experience

“Turning into part of Kiwibot opens up new avenues for our applied sciences and patents,” famous Sming Liao, CEO of AUTO Mobility Options. “Collectively, we’re poised to redefine the panorama of autonomous supply companies, making certain larger safety and effectivity.”

The Taipei, Taiwan-based firm was incubated by ALi Corp. and develops built-in circuit (IC) chips for AI, self-driving autos, robotics, the Web of Issues (IoT), and cybersecurity. Its methods characteristic superior path planning, positioning, and obstacle-avoidance expertise.

AUTO Mobility Options has constructed a patent portfolio in AI, IoT, and cybersecurity in Taipei. Supply: Kiwibot

AUTO stated its crew will add greater than 100 licensed patents to Kiwibot’s choices.

“Our choice to affix forces was solidified after recognizing the complementary nature of our applied sciences and the potential for a synergistic relationship,” stated Chavez. “One among our traders from Taiwan launched us, and we began the connection as a buyer for a customized cybersecurity chip.”

“The acquisition strategically positions us to bolster our cybersecurity infrastructure, particularly contemplating the rising curiosity in AI and its related vulnerabilities,” he added. “Collectively, Kiwibot and AUTO wish to develop enhanced capabilities in autonomous navigation, AI-powered choice making, and superior cybersecurity measures.”

Acquisition to develop world presence

The businesses additionally stated the acquisition will assist the merged entity ship main methods globally and meet the evolving wants of each companies and customers.

“AUTO’s established presence in Taiwan and Shenzhen [China] will play an important function in serving to Kiwibot navigate geopolitical and provide chain challenges,” defined Chavez. “Their experience and strategic areas will assist in diversifying our provide chain and offering stability in our manufacturing and growth processes, making certain Kiwibot’s continued development and scalability.”

Felipe Chavez, CEO of Kiwibot (left), and Sming Liao, CEO of AUTO (proper). Supply: Kiwibot

Kiwibot remains to be evaluating consolidation and rebranding, he informed The Robotic Report.

“The Taipei crew will keep a excessive diploma of autonomy to leverage their specialised experience and native data successfully. Whereas we’re unified in our mission and technique, we acknowledge the significance of fostering innovation by way of autonomous operations,” Chavez stated. “We’re at present evaluating how finest to combine our manufacturers to replicate our unified energy whereas honoring the established id and contributions of AUTO’s crew.”

What are Kiwibot’s plans for the close to future?

“Wanting ahead, Kiwibot’s roadmap consists of the continual enchancment of our autonomous supply robots, the enlargement of our service areas, and the mixing of AUTO’s technological development,” Chavez replied. “We’re dedicated to pioneering the way forward for robotic companies and making certain a seamless and safe expertise for our customers. Keep tuned for thrilling updates as we progress on this journey.”