Zoho Corporation, known for its popular business software suite Zoho and ManageEngine, has made a strategic move in its R&D expansion. On July 2, 2025, Zoho officially acquired Asimov Robotics, a Kerala‑based deep‑tech startup, and inaugurated its new AI & Robotics campus in Kottarakkara, Kerala
🏢 What This Acquisition Involves
- What: Zoho has acquired Asimov Robotics, founded in 2012, specializing in robots that handle hazardous, repetitive, and inefficient tasks in industries like healthcare, defense, space, and manufacturing
- Campus Launch: This was announced alongside the opening of Zoho’s new 250-seat R&D campus focused on AI and robotics
- R&D Integration: Asimov’s team will continue their research from Kottarakkara under Zoho’s mentorship, boosting their capabilities
🔍 Why Zoho Made the Move
- Deep‑tech ambition: Zoho aims to build advanced robotics and AI capabilities, expanding beyond its core SaaS business
- Rural innovation: The Kottarakkara campus supports Zoho’s mission to decentralize tech R&D and develop local talent
- Ecosystem collaboration: Zoho also partnered with Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) to launch a “Deep Tech Product Studio,” supporting other deep‑tech startups
🌱 About Asimov Robotics
Asimov Robotics (founded 2012) is based in Kochi and offers robotic solutions in sectors like medical care, space, defense, hospitality, and banking. The company is known for simulation, machine vision, VR, autonomous navigation, and supported India’s pandemic response yourstory
🧠 What’s Next for Zoho
- Robotics R&D: Integration of Asimov’s team into Zoho’s campus will accelerate AI and robotics research.
- Startup support: The collaboration with KSUM signals Zoho’s growing role in nurturing deep‑tech innovation across Kerala
- Strategic vision: As Sridhar Vembu, Zoho co‑founder‑chief scientist, commented, the focus is “to develop these capabilities in India and make the country self‑reliant in critical technology”
📊 Quick Facts Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Focus Keyword | Zoho acquires Asimov Robotics |
| Acquisition Date | July 2, 2025 |
| Asimov Robotics Founded | 2012 |
| Campus Location | Kottarakkara, Kerala |
| Campus Capacity | 250 seats |
| Partners | KSUM, IIT Bombay, Boson Motors, Zentron Labs, others |
✅ Final Thoughts
The acquisition of Asimov Robotics signals Zoho’s bold move into cutting‑edge robotics and AI. With a new rural R&D campus and collaboration with local startups and institutions, Zoho is building an ecosystem designed to foster innovation and boost technological self‑reliance in India.
