BOE Technology Group, the world’s largest display manufacturer and a key supplier to Apple, has taken a major step into the robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) sector. The company recently launched Beijing BOE Robot, a newly established subsidiary with a registered capital of 200 million yuan (approximately US$28 million), according to corporate data records from Qichacha.
The new unit will focus on developing industrial robots and AI-driven software, aligning BOE with several other leading Chinese manufacturers expanding into robotics-related technologies.
Following the announcement, BOE’s shares in Shenzhen saw a modest rise of 0.49%, closing at 4.12 yuan on Monday. The move underscores China’s growing influence in the global robotics market, with the country maintaining its position as the largest market for industrial robots in 2024.
A recent report by the International Federation of Robotics revealed that China accounted for 54% of global industrial robot installations last year, marking a record high of 295,000 new units. Notably, for the first time, domestic Chinese companies sold more robots locally than their international competitors.
The report highlighted that robot demand in China shows no signs of slowing down, with manufacturing still offering substantial room for expansion—an average annual growth of around 10% is expected until 2028.
A separate analysis by Morgan Stanley forecasts China’s robotics sector to grow by 23% annually, reaching US$108 billion by 2028, up from US$47 billion in 2024, cementing the nation’s leadership in the field.
Founded in 1993, BOE serves major global clients such as Apple and Huawei and employs nearly 100,000 people. The company’s latest move follows a broader industry trend, with other tech giants also exploring robotics. For instance, Foxconn Technology Group, another Apple supplier, signed a long-term partnership earlier this year with UBTech Robotics to integrate robots into its manufacturing operations.
Meanwhile, Ant Group, a leading Chinese fintech firm, has also established Shanghai Mayi Lingbo Technology, focusing on embodied intelligence (EI)—AI technology that enables physical systems like robots to sense and interact with their surroundings.
BOE’s entry into robotics and AI underscores China’s strategic shift toward intelligent manufacturing, automation, and the fusion of digital and physical technologies shaping the next industrial era.
