LG Electronics (LG) has taken a major leap in its robotics initiative by acquiring a controlling 51% stake in Bear Robotics, a leading Silicon Valley-based startup specializing in AI-driven autonomous service robots. This strategic move is part of LG’s efforts to strengthen its footprint in the robotics sector, which is expected to play a crucial role in the company’s future growth.
On January 22, LG’s board of directors exercised a call option, acquiring an additional 30% stake in Bear Robotics. This follows LG’s initial investment of USD 60 million in March 2024, securing a 21% stake along with the option to increase its ownership. With the exercise of this option, LG now holds a majority stake, effectively making Bear Robotics a subsidiary.
As part of this acquisition, LG will integrate its commercial robot business, led by the “LG CLOi Robots,” with Bear Robotics. The key management team at Bear Robotics, including CEO John Ha, will remain in place to ensure continuity and focus on creating synergies between LG’s commercial robot portfolio and Bear Robotics’ technology.
Founded in 2017, Bear Robotics is recognized for its innovative AI-powered indoor delivery robots, which are deployed in markets across the United States, South Korea, and Japan. The company has become known for its expertise in multi-robot control systems, remote fleet management, and its AI-powered robot platform.
LG’s acquisition aims to expand its reach within the commercial robot sector while enhancing its AI and manufacturing capabilities to further strengthen its home and industrial robotics businesses.
Expanding Horizons in Home Robotics
The home robotics segment will be led by the LG Home Appliance Solution Company, a recognized leader in the industry. The focus will be on providing a seamless experience where home robots, powered by LG’s Affectionate Intelligence, can understand the well-being of family members and integrate effortlessly with home appliances and services.
A key example of this vision is the upcoming Self-driving AI Home Hub (project name: Q9), set to launch later this year. The Q9 utilizes multimodal sensing, including voice, sound, and image recognition, combined with autonomous navigation technology. This enables the robot to move freely within the home, identify users’ needs, and interact with smart devices to improve household functionality. The Q9 is capable of navigating obstacles like carpets and uneven surfaces, while its expressive display adds an emotional layer to its interactions, enhancing user engagement.
Notably, the Q9 incorporates Microsoft’s voice recognition technology, enabling natural, intuitive communication with users. Its ability to understand diverse accents and colloquialisms was a highlight at CES 2025, where the product drew significant attention. To foster innovation, LG has also launched a software development kit (SDK) for the Q9, inviting developers to extend its capabilities.
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Industrial Robotics: Paving the Way for Smart Manufacturing
In the industrial robotics sector, LG’s Smart Factory business is seeing significant growth. The company’s Production Engineering Research Institute is driving revenue through AI and digital transformation. One of the standout innovations is the “Autonomous Vertical Articulated Robot,” which utilizes cameras, radar, and LiDAR sensors to navigate its environment and complete tasks such as assembly, material handling, and defect inspection. This technology helps automate various processes in industrial operations, boosting efficiency and precision.
LG’s CEO, William Cho, highlighted the company’s forward-thinking approach during CES 2025 in Las Vegas, stating, “Robots are a certain future.” He also revealed plans to expand beyond current applications in hospitality and logistics to include the Self-driving AI Home Hub and other home robots, paving the way toward the “Zero-labor Home.”
Synergies and Innovation Across Robotics Platforms
By taking full management control of Bear Robotics, LG aims to create synergies that enhance its commercial, industrial, and home robot divisions. With a strong focus on AI-driven solutions, this acquisition will accelerate the development of an integrated software platform, enabling seamless user experiences across various robot applications. This integration will significantly reduce development cycles and allow LG to leverage Bear Robotics’ technology across its entire robotics portfolio.
LG’s extensive manufacturing capabilities and expertise in supply chain management will enhance the operational efficiency and market responsiveness of its robotics business. Additionally, the company’s robust B2B sales network will drive product distribution globally. By integrating commercial robots into a broad range of B2B solutions, including hotel TVs, signage, and IT devices, LG can offer tailored products that meet the specific needs of corporate clients, strengthening its competitive edge.
“This additional investment underscores our commitment to positioning robots as a key growth driver for the company and highlights our confidence in their role in the future,” said Lee Sam-soo, Chief Strategy Officer at LG Electronics. “We will continue pushing the boundaries of innovation across all areas of robotics, including commercial, industrial, and home applications.”
