Ant Group has invested 500 million yuan ($73.58 million) in Zeroth, its 12th humanoid robotics investment since 2025. This push into humanoid robots reflects Ant's strategy to diversify after its IPO was halted and indicates growing interest in robotics in China.
Ant Group has completed a 500 million yuan ($73.58 million) funding round for Zeroth Robotics, marking its 12th investment in the humanoid robotics sector since early 2025. This investment aligns with Ant's reorientation towards robotics and artificial intelligence following regulatory challenges with its IPO in 2020.
After regulators halted Ant's major IPO, the group has diversified its initiatives by launching a healthcare services app and developing AI models. In 2024, Ant also created a subsidiary, RobbyAnt, focused on humanoid robotics, enhancing its strategic footprint in tech.
Zeroth aims to develop companionship robots for elderly care and pet assistance as its initial products, followed by educational robots for children. The company's founder, Guo Renjie, has indicated that they have already secured orders for over 30,000 units.
Zeroth reported a significant revenue increase of 600% in the first half of the year compared to the previous year. The startup plans to expand into international markets in North America and Europe later this year.
The growing investment in humanoid robotics in China is highlighted by this move from Ant Group. The interest in this sector is further underscored by Nvidia's recent hiring announcements for robotics roles across major Chinese cities.
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Ant Group has invested 500 million yuan ($73.58 million) in Zeroth, its 12th humanoid robotics investment since 2025. This push into humanoid robots reflects Ant's strategy to diversify after its IPO was halted and indicates growing interest in robotics in China.