In a move that signals its growing ambitions in robotics and deep technology, SaaS powerhouse Zoho has acquired Kerala-based robotics startup Asimov Robotics. The 13-year-old startup, known for developing robotic solutions will now join Zoho’s expanding R&D ecosystem. The financial details of the deal remain undisclosed.

Strengthening Robotics Capabilities

Zoho said the acquisition will enhance its internal R&D muscle, particularly in robotics, where the company has already been making strategic moves. This is Zoho’s second foray into the robotics space as in May 2022, the Sridhar Vembu-led company invested INR 20 crore in another robotics startup, Genrobotics.

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Asimov Robotics, founded in 2012, has made its mark by creating robots designed to work in industrial environments where safety and efficiency are major concerns. Post-acquisition, the Asimov team will continue to pursue its research and product development goals under Zoho’s mentorship and guidance. The startup has been one of the key companies supported by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM).

Building a Deep tech Product Studio 

Alongside the acquisition, Zoho announced a strategic partnership with KSUM to set up a deep tech product studio. The studio aims to bring together startups and enterprises focused on cutting-edge research and product development in fields like robotics and artificial intelligence. To further strengthen its collaborative R&D network, Zoho has also forged partnerships with several deep tech startups and academic institutions. These include Boson Motors, Vipus Advanced Materials, vTitan, Zentron Labs, Verdant Telemetry & Antenna Systems, Netrasemi, Genrobotics, Energy 24by7, and IIT Bombay. The company said it will work closely with these partners on solving real-world R&D challenges, fostering both innovation and knowledge-sharing.

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Kottarakkara Becomes Zoho's Deeptech Hub

These announcements were made during the inauguration of Zoho’s new office in Kottarakkara, Kerala. Speaking at the event, Zoho cofounder and CEO Shailesh Davey highlighted the company’s plans to make the Kottarakkara facility a centre of excellence for R&D, starting with AI and robotics. He emphasised that Zoho’s efforts will extend beyond its own initiatives, collaborating with like-minded organisations to amplify the reach and impact of their deep tech innovations.

With this series of moves, Zoho is clearly signalling that its next phase of growth is rooted not just in SaaS, but in bold bets on the technologies that will define the future.