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SoftBank to invest $500M in robotics startup SkildAI | TechCrunch

Jan 29, 2025 - techcrunch.com
SoftBank is in talks to invest $500 million in Skild AI, a company developing a foundational AI model for robotics, valuing the two-year-old firm at $4 billion. Skild AI previously raised $300 million at a $1.5 billion valuation last July, with investors including Jeff Bezos, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and Coatue Management. The company's AI model is designed to be adaptable for various robotic applications, according to founders Deepak Pathak and Abhinav Gupta.

The intersection of robotics and AI is attracting significant investor interest. Jeff Bezos has notably increased his investments in AI-powered robotics companies. Another startup, Physical Intelligence, raised $400 million at a $2 billion pre-money valuation in November, focusing on developing AI "brains" for robots. Additionally, Figure AI secured $675 million last February to develop an AI-powered humanoid robot, with backing from major investors like Microsoft, OpenAI Startup Fund, Nvidia, and Bezos Expeditions.

Key takeaways:

  • SoftBank is negotiating a $500 million investment in Skild AI, valuing the company at $4 billion.
  • Skild AI previously raised $300 million at a $1.5 billion valuation, with investors including Jeff Bezos and Lightspeed Venture Partners.
  • Investor interest in AI-powered robotics is growing, with significant funding directed towards companies like Physical Intelligence and Figure AI.
  • Jeff Bezos has been actively investing in AI and robotics startups, participating in multiple funding rounds.
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