Kiwibot Acquires Chipmaker to Safeguard Robotics Tech

Delivery robotics company Kiwibot has acquired Auto Mobility Solutions, a Taiwan-based chipmaker that creates chips for robotics, cybersecurity and autonomous driving tech.

The companies said the collaboration marks a “significant milestone” in safeguarding privacy in the robotics industry, with a particular focus on smart robots sourced from China and deployed in Western markets.

"The acquisition of Auto is a game-changer for us, bringing a wealth of technological innovation and a strong patent portfolio that will significantly enhance our cybersecurity measures for AI-powered robotics,” Felipe Chavez, Kiwibot’s CEO. “This move not only strengthens our position in the market but also connects the manufacturing expertise from Asia with the AI development in the West securely."

Kiwibot also said that it would gain more than 100 licensed patents from Auto under the terms of the acquisition. 

"Becoming a part of Kiwibot opens up new avenues for our technologies and patents,” said Sming Liao, Auto’s CEO. “Together, we are poised to redefine the landscape of autonomous delivery services, ensuring greater security and efficiency." 

Kiwibot also said the acquisition will help expand its global footprint to Asia, reaching Auto’s strategic locations in Taipei and Shenzhen.

Related:Kiwibot Receives $10M in Funding to Scale Robotic Fleet

Founded in 2017, Kiwibot is known for its small-scale, wheeled delivery robots that operate around university campuses. Initially trialed at the University of California-Berkeley, the company’s robotic fleet has been successfully deployed across the U.S., Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

In February last year, Kiwibot entered a $10 million financing partnership with Kineo Finance to scale the manufacturing and deployment of its robotic delivery service.