Bosch is strengthening its position in the rapidly growing robotics sector, with a particular focus on humanoid robots, artificial intelligence and advanced automation technologies that are expected to shape the next generation of industrial and consumer applications.
Speaking at the Bosch Connected World technology conference in Berlin, company executives outlined how Bosch plans to leverage its expertise in sensors, automation, software and manufacturing to become a key supplier for the emerging humanoid robotics industry.
Supporting the Humanoid Robot Revolution
Bosch sees strong similarities between the technologies used in modern robotics and those already deployed in automotive automation.
“Advanced sensor technology, software and the efficient conversion of electrical energy into motion are not only technologically related to automated mobility — they constitute the very cornerstones of modern robotics,” said Stefan Hartung, Chairman of the Board of Management of Robert Bosch GmbH.
Rather than building its own humanoid robots, Bosch is positioning itself as a supplier of critical technologies that act as the “brain and nervous system” behind robotic systems.
As demand for humanoid robots increases, Bosch expects growing opportunities for its components, automation platforms and AI-driven solutions.
Building the Sense of Touch for Robots
A major focus area for Bosch is the development of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors, which allow robots to perceive and interact with their environment.
These sensors enable robots to adjust their grip strength, distinguish between delicate and heavy objects and respond safely to physical contact.
According to Bosch, tactile sensing will become increasingly important as robots move beyond industrial settings and begin operating alongside humans in workplaces and homes.
The company estimates the global MEMS sensor market will exceed US$19 billion by 2030, driven in part by growing demand from robotics applications.
Expanding Through Partnerships and Innovation
To accelerate development, Bosch has established Robert Bosch Robotics GmbH, a dedicated business unit focused on new robotic technologies and commercialisation.
The company is also investing in strategic partnerships with emerging robotics companies, including German start-up Neura Robotics, which specialises in cognitive robotic systems capable of learning and interacting more naturally with their surroundings.
Beyond Europe, Bosch works with robotics developers in the United States, China and the United Kingdom, helping scale prototype systems for mass production.
In China, the company has launched the Bosch Robotics Center China, dedicated to physical AI development and robotics commercialisation.
AI Powered by Factory Data
Artificial intelligence sits at the centre of Bosch’s robotics strategy.
The company integrates AI into both its products and manufacturing operations, using machine learning for predictive maintenance, production optimisation and automated quality control.
A key advantage comes from Bosch’s extensive manufacturing network, which spans more than 230 factories worldwide.
Data collected across these facilities provides a vast training resource for AI systems and robotics applications.
“Our decisive competitive advantage is not the machines themselves, but the data we generate in our global production network,” said Tanja Rueckert, Member of the Executive Board of Robert Bosch GmbH.
Strengthening Europe’s Technology Position
Bosch believes robotics and AI will become strategic industries for Europe over the coming decade.
By combining industrial expertise, advanced sensor technologies and AI capabilities, the company aims to support the large-scale deployment of humanoid and cognitive robots while reinforcing Europe’s role as a global technology and manufacturing hub.
As automation expands across industries ranging from logistics and manufacturing to healthcare and consumer services, Bosch expects robotics to become one of the company’s most important long-term growth opportunities.
