Robotics & Automation
Automated systems and robots for industrial and commercial applications
Source: GlobalData. Figures checked October 21, 2026.
Market Overview
Market Size
$90.2B (2024). Source: GlobalData (reported by Trade & Industry Development), GlobalData Forecast: Global Robotics Market to Reach $205.5 Billion by 2030.
Projection
$205.5B (2030) (2024-2030).
Scope and other estimates
Includes industrial and service robots. ABI Research, counting robot hardware only, puts the 2024 market at $44.9B.
Description
Industrial robots, autonomous systems, humanoid robots
Key Technology Segments
Industrial Robots
Automated systems for manufacturing
Key Players and Research Institutions
Fanuc
enterpriseIndustrial robots, CNC systems and factory automation.
Public (Tokyo: 6954)
Visit website →ABB Robotics
enterpriseIndustrial robots and automation. ABB agreed in October 2025 to sell the division to SoftBank Group for $5.375B, with closing expected in mid-to-late 2026.
Division of ABB (pending sale to SoftBank)
Visit website →KUKA
enterpriseIndustrial robots and automation systems, wholly owned by Midea Group since 2022.
Subsidiary of Midea Group
Visit website →MIT
universityResearch institution with leading robotics and AI programs.
Commercialization Pathways
Licensing
medium feasibilityRobotics IP can be licensed to manufacturers.
Spinout
high feasibilityStrong startup ecosystem for robotics innovations.
Partnership
high feasibilityPartnerships with industrial companies are common.
Regulatory Considerations
- •Safety standards
- •AI regulations
- •Workplace safety
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the market size for robotics & automation?
GlobalData estimates market size at $90.2B (2024), reaching $205.5B (2030) (15% CAGR). Includes industrial and service robots. ABI Research, counting robot hardware only, puts the 2024 market at $44.9B.
What are the main commercialization pathways for robotics & automation?
The primary commercialization pathways include spinout, partnership. Spinouts are particularly viable given strong investor interest.
Which universities are leading in robotics & automation research?
Leading universities in robotics & automation include MIT, Stanford, CMU, and others. These institutions have strong research programs and commercialization track records in this area.
What are the key technology segments in robotics & automation?
Key technology segments include Industrial Robots. These segments represent different areas of innovation and market opportunity within the broader robotics & automation category.
Leading Universities
MIT
$1.1B R&D (FY2024) • 38 startups (FY2025)
Stanford
$1.6B R&D (FY2024) • 28 startups (FY2025)
CMU
$505.3M R&D (FY2024) • 11 startups (FY2025)
Georgia Tech
$1.5B R&D (FY2024)
Related Tools
Get Market Intelligence
Use Commercify to analyze market opportunities and build your commercialization strategy.
See plans & pricing