Wow, Hyundai Motor Group have just acquired Boston Dynamics for a whopping $1.1 billion. I wonder if Hyundai will develop an ED-209 in the future!
Taken from Engadget … Boston Dynamics is now officially part of Hyundai Motor Group. The Korean conglomerate has struck a deal with Softbank to acquire a controlling interest — an 80 percent stake — in the robotics company for $1.1 billion. Softbank will retain a 20 percent stake through one of its affiliates. The companies have been in talks since at least early November, and the deal is expected to be finalized in June 2021.
According to their announcement, Hyundai decided to purchase a controlling stake in the robotics firm, because it “possesses multiple key technologies for high-performance robots equipped with perception, navigation, and intelligence.” In addition, Boston Dynamics has offices in Boston and Silicon Valley, which makes it easier to recruit top talents and collaborate with potential partners.
The acquisition gives Hyundai access to a wider range of technologies it can use to expand its logistics robot offerings. While Spot may have a reputation for being a rather terrifying robotic dog, for instance, it also has the capability to perform dull and dangerous tasks in settings not suitable for the more typical types of automated machines. The MIT spinoff also developed a computer vision solution for depalletizing called Pick, which can be used for warehouse machines. Plus, it’s expected to introduce a mobile robot for warehouses next year, as well.
Source: Engadget
