SoftBank in talks to buy stake in 1X at $6 billion valuation, The Information reports

SoftBank is engaged in negotiations to acquire a controlling stake in 1X Technologies, a company co-founded by OpenAI, according to a report by The Information. The prospective deal, valued at approximately $6 billion, would mark a significant investment in the humanoid robot developer. However, Reuters has not been able to independently verify the information.

SoftBank Group and 1X Technologies have yet to comment on the reported discussions, which are still in progress and may undergo changes. The report also mentioned that OpenAI and 1X Technologies had previously considered the possibility of OpenAI acquiring 1X last year. In 2023, both OpenAI and 1X Technologies received funding through the OpenAI Startup Fund, alongside investment from Tiger Global and Norwegian-based investors.

This potential acquisition is part of SoftBank's ongoing expansion into the robotics sector, following its recent acquisition of ABB's robotics business for $5.4 billion.