The robotics industry is moving fast. With new innovations happening every year, businesses need to know which companies are leading the way. Understanding market share and installation numbers helps you see where the real action is. This guide gives you a clear look at the top robotics vendors and breaks down what their presence means for your strategy—whether you’re a startup looking to file a patent or a manufacturer thinking about your next robot investment.

1. ABB holds approximately 14% of the global industrial robotics market share.

ABB’s position as a global leader in industrial robotics is not a surprise. The company has spent decades refining its robotic solutions for sectors like automotive, electronics, and logistics.

Holding 14% of the global market shows that ABB is a key player, especially when it comes to flexible automation. Their robots are known for precision and durability, which is why many Fortune 500 companies stick with them.

If you’re a business planning to invest in automation, working with ABB or designing products compatible with their systems can open doors. It also tells you where to look when drafting a robotics-related patent.

Understanding ABB’s dominant features, such as their advanced motion control or easy-to-use programming platforms, allows you to build something different and innovative. Avoid copying, but study what works.

For startups, aligning your technology to plug into ABB’s ecosystem might give you a faster route to partnerships or acquisition.

The firm also has strong global service support, which makes it easier for your product or add-on to scale globally if you design it to work well within their standards.

2. FANUC leads the global robotics market with about 18% market share.

FANUC’s lead in the market is not just about the number. It’s about consistency. Their robots are used across industries for welding, painting, and machine handling.

What gives FANUC the edge is their unmatched reliability. These machines can run for years with very little downtime, making them the go-to choice for companies that can’t afford a stop in production.

For those developing new tech or robotic software, consider how you can complement FANUC’s systems. Think about data analytics tools that give deeper insights into robot performance or accessories that enhance robot flexibility.

The real opportunity lies in providing solutions that add to FANUC’s trusted foundation without disrupting what already works well.

From a patent strategy point of view, examine FANUC’s existing patents and identify white spaces—areas where innovation is possible without conflict. This is how you build a strong IP strategy that holds value.

3. Yaskawa Electric accounts for around 8% of the global robotics market.

Yaskawa is especially strong in motion control and servo motor technology, which gives their robots great precision. Their robots are often used in complex assembly and packaging environments.

That 8% market share means thousands of businesses rely on Yaskawa to keep production moving.

For smaller manufacturers, this shows that integrating with Yaskawa can offer long-term value. If you’re developing a robotic component or accessory, ensure it can communicate smoothly with Yaskawa’s systems. That could make it easier to sell to companies already using their robots.

Also, since Yaskawa offers open-platform development tools, you can innovate faster. Whether you’re creating safety features, vision systems, or plug-ins for smarter robotics, you can ride on Yaskawa’s existing footprint to get market attention quicker.

If you’re an inventor or company looking to patent a new robotics feature, be aware of Yaskawa’s special strengths—especially around motion and control. Building around that space, or offering complementary features, will strengthen your application and reduce legal risks.

4. KUKA commands roughly 13% of the global robotics market.

KUKA is known for high-performance robots, especially in automotive and heavy-duty industries. With 13% market share, they are a heavyweight and a long-time innovator in industrial automation. Their signature orange robots are hard to miss in any production line.

Companies that want to build next-gen robots or components can learn a lot from KUKA’s approach to modularity and power.

If you’re developing robotic arms, vision systems, or AI-based path optimization software, KUKA’s footprint makes them a strong partner or target customer.

From a legal and IP perspective, KUKA’s extensive portfolio means it’s essential to do a deep dive before filing any patents in similar fields. But there’s a plus—because they’re so well-established, they also leave room for niche opportunities where smaller innovators can play.

Look into robotic maintenance tech or AI predictive tools designed to work with KUKA systems.

5. Mitsubishi Electric holds close to 7% of the robotics market.

Mitsubishi Electric may not always be the first name that comes to mind in robotics, but their 7% market share is proof of their steady growth. They’re a favorite in electronics manufacturing and pick-and-place automation, particularly where precision is key.

Their robots are compact, fast, and easy to program. If your business is targeting high-speed automation, learning from Mitsubishi’s design principles is a smart move.

They balance affordability with performance, which opens up opportunities in cost-sensitive markets.

Startups in vision systems, machine learning, or robotics control software can benefit by developing plug-ins tailored to Mitsubishi’s environments.

Think beyond hardware—there’s a growing need for analytics platforms that work hand-in-hand with existing systems to optimize uptime and reduce energy use.

For patents, focus on unique workflows or integration tools that Mitsubishi doesn’t already offer. PatentPC recommends checking their most recent filings to find areas of opportunity.

6. Kawasaki Robotics has about 5% market share globally.

Kawasaki may be best known for motorcycles, but in robotics, they’re a serious player with a strong footprint in pharmaceutical, food, and beverage sectors. Their systems are clean, compact, and suited for environments where hygiene is critical.

The 5% market share indicates growing adoption in niche industries. This is useful for entrepreneurs and inventors looking to innovate in specialty robotics.

There’s room to introduce products that are tailored to Kawasaki’s clean-room environments or tools that help their systems adapt to changing production needs.

If you’re developing something new—like AI-driven material handling or ultra-sensitive touch sensors—designing for compatibility with Kawasaki robots gives you a head start. Their support for open communication protocols also makes integration easier.

From an IP standpoint, Kawasaki is less saturated than some of the bigger players, which means your patent application might face fewer barriers. Just be sure your innovation is truly differentiated.

7. Universal Robots dominates the collaborative robot (cobot) sector with over 40% market share.

Universal Robots (UR) is the clear leader in the cobot space. Cobots are designed to work alongside humans safely, which makes them a favorite in small and medium businesses. With more than 40% of the market, UR is the brand to watch in this fast-growing sector.

The beauty of cobots is their flexibility. UR has built a platform that encourages developers to create add-ons through their UR+ ecosystem. If you have a robotics product or idea—whether it’s software, sensors, or grippers—UR gives you a ready-made path to market.

Even better, you can test and refine your idea in a controlled ecosystem. If it works well, it can be certified by UR and sold directly through their marketplace. This opens up big opportunities for smaller teams or solo inventors who want to get noticed quickly.

From a patent angle, cobots are less crowded than traditional robots, meaning there’s more room for innovation. Focus on human-machine interaction, safety enhancements, or application-specific tools like those for labs, agriculture, or inspection.

8. Epson Robots holds nearly 4% market share in SCARA and small industrial robots.

Epson has carved out a strong position in the world of SCARA and small-scale robots.

These robots are incredibly fast and compact, making them perfect for precision work like electronics assembly, small parts handling, and lab automation. Their 4% share in a competitive space shows that they are consistently delivering value where speed and size matter most.

For businesses building components, platforms, or software for SCARA environments, Epson is a logical partner or integration target.

Their robots often operate in tight spaces, so accessories or add-ons that are lightweight, simple to mount, or can boost performance without extra bulk can find a place in this market.

Entrepreneurs can also consider how to optimize workflow tools or calibration systems specifically for SCARA robots. For instance, a plug-and-play AI-based quality control system that works seamlessly with Epson units could have a strong competitive edge.

On the IP front, this niche segment still has open ground. PatentPC advises focusing on innovations that either increase SCARA flexibility or bring more intelligence to high-speed processes—areas where existing IP is not yet saturated.

9. Omron Adept Technologies has roughly 2% of the robotics market.

Omron Adept may have a smaller share of the market, but their focus is powerful: adaptive robots for smart factories.

Their strength lies in integrated solutions—robots that work with vision systems, conveyors, and inspection tools all at once. Their presence in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and flexible manufacturing keeps growing.

With 2% of the market, they’re not the biggest player—but they’re one of the smartest when it comes to systems thinking.

This is a clear opportunity for companies that want to build on their platforms or offer improvements in real-time control, adaptive behavior, or predictive maintenance.

Inventors looking for patent opportunities can explore the edge between AI and sensor fusion—how robots make decisions on the fly. This is a sweet spot where Omron operates, and where there’s still room to innovate.

Focus on how data from various sources—temperature, vision, touch—can be interpreted faster or more accurately.

Focus on how data from various sources—temperature, vision, touch—can be interpreted faster or more accurately.

10. Stäubli Robotics controls around 2% of global robot installations.

Stäubli is known for its cleanroom and high-speed automation robots, especially in semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences.

Their robots are designed with hygiene and precision in mind, which is why they are often used in sterile environments where even minor contamination is unacceptable.

Though their market share is 2%, their presence in specialized fields makes them a key brand to watch. If your product targets cleanroom standards or involves robotic arms that must maintain strict sterility, aligning with Stäubli’s ecosystem could be a smart play.

From a business strategy perspective, consider building applications, software, or components that meet FDA or ISO cleanroom certifications. These are critical in the industries Stäubli serves, and being compliant can give your product a competitive edge.

On the patent side, focus on hygienic design improvements, contamination-resistant materials, or tools that increase robotic flexibility without sacrificing cleanliness. These areas are underdeveloped and full of potential.

11. Hyundai Robotics holds approximately 3% of the market, primarily in Asia.

Hyundai may be a newer name in robotics compared to others, but it’s quickly climbing. Holding 3% of the global market—mostly in Asia—it’s becoming a strong regional player.

Their focus is mainly on industrial automation, especially in sectors like automotive and heavy industry where they have deep roots.

For startups and engineers based in Asia, Hyundai offers a promising platform for partnerships, integrations, or distribution.

Since their robotics business is tied closely to their broader industrial ecosystem, you can often get traction by solving a problem in a related space—like logistics, quality control, or predictive servicing.

If you’re aiming to patent a product in this space, be mindful of regional patent laws and how Hyundai’s own IP is evolving.

There may be opportunities to create robotic solutions that enhance their platforms without direct overlap—like third-party vision systems or modular tooling add-ons.

12. Techman Robot has around 10% share in the collaborative robot segment.

Techman Robot has made a solid name in the cobot segment by blending AI vision into collaborative robotics. With 10% of the cobot market, they’re a worthy competitor to Universal Robots and a good option for startups that want to diversify their integrations.

Their key differentiator is built-in vision systems, which make deployment and operation easier for end-users.

If you’re designing a product for assembly lines or lab automation, making it compatible with Techman cobots—especially through software APIs or plug-and-play mechanics—can make it more attractive to this growing market.

In terms of patents, the fusion of vision and cobotics opens up great territory. Think about enhancements in gesture recognition, dynamic task allocation, or real-time object manipulation.

PatentPC recommends protecting algorithms or hardware designs that allow cobots to become more intuitive and easier to train.

13. NACHI-FUJIKOSHI holds nearly 3% of global robot installations.

NACHI-FUJIKOSHI isn’t as well-known globally, but they’ve been in robotics for a long time. Their robots are often used in automotive, foundry, and welding tasks. They’re robust, affordable, and built for high-output environments.

Their 3% market share shows that reliability still wins. For companies focused on automation in harsh conditions—like high heat or metal dust—creating tools that support NACHI’s rugged use cases can be a good strategy.

Whether you’re designing a gripper, a temperature-resistant sensor, or a specialized welding AI assistant, building it to fit NACHI’s rugged environment makes your offering easier to adopt. Think durability and ease of maintenance.

On the patent front, innovation in harsh environment robotics is wide open. Filing patents for heat-resistant joint mechanisms, self-cleaning sensors, or adaptive cooling systems could give you a strong position in this area.

14. FANUC has installed over 800,000 industrial robots worldwide.

This number says it all. Over 800,000 FANUC robots are out there running factories, making products, and keeping global production lines moving. That scale gives FANUC a massive installed base and gives developers, startups, and inventors a clear target.

When you’re building something—whether software, a tool, or a hardware add-on—FANUC compatibility opens doors. With such a large number of machines in use, even a small share of that ecosystem can mean big revenue.

Focus on solving real-world problems these users face. Speeding up programming, reducing downtime, automating inspections—these are all valuable. Your innovation should help operators or technicians do their jobs better, faster, or more safely.

Legally, FANUC has a strong IP portfolio, so check the landscape carefully. But their scale also means they have gaps—especially in user experience, connectivity, and low-code programming tools. That’s where you can find space to patent and grow.

15. ABB has surpassed 600,000 robot installations globally.

ABB’s wide footprint of over 600,000 robots means they are deeply embedded in factories around the world. From welding to packaging, their reach spans multiple industries and continents.

For entrepreneurs, this installed base means there’s a huge audience of existing users who may need new tools, enhancements, or upgrades. Consider cloud-based platforms for monitoring ABB robot performance, or machine learning models that optimize energy use or maintenance cycles.

One overlooked opportunity is data-driven analytics for ABB environments. If you can offer predictive insights or real-time error detection for these robots, it’s a value-add for both ABB and their customers.

From a patent strategy angle, look into workflow-specific add-ons that bring new value to ABB’s existing hardware. Filing IP around how your technology integrates, monitors, or enhances performance can strengthen your legal position.

From a patent strategy angle, look into workflow-specific add-ons that bring new value to ABB’s existing hardware. Filing IP around how your technology integrates, monitors, or enhances performance can strengthen your legal position.

16. Yaskawa has more than 500,000 robots installed across industries.

With over half a million robots in operation, Yaskawa’s presence is hard to ignore. This isn’t just a number—it’s a sign of trust, consistency, and long-term reliability. Their robots are used in industries ranging from automotive to food processing, which shows their versatility.

For product developers or system integrators, tapping into this user base means thinking about compatibility. Are you building software that enhances robot control? A tool that helps robots learn faster?

Or maybe sensors that make robots safer around people? If so, ensuring your solution works with Yaskawa models could help you reach thousands of customers right away.

From a legal and patent perspective, this large installed base also means opportunity. You’re not just filing a patent for something new—you’re solving problems for hundreds of thousands of systems already in use. That gives your invention real-world value, which investors and licensing partners love.

Your angle might be in connectivity (like integrating with smart factories), in maintenance (predictive failure alerts), or even in hardware (attachments that extend robot functionality). Just make sure to test for backward compatibility—older Yaskawa robots are still widely used.

17. KUKA has over 400,000 industrial robots deployed globally.

KUKA’s impressive install base of 400,000 robots gives them a strong global footprint. Their robots are especially popular in the automotive industry, but they’re also gaining ground in logistics, electronics, and even healthcare.

If you’re thinking of building an add-on, platform, or new tool, consider what a KUKA customer needs. Often, these are high-volume environments where speed and reliability matter.

For example, you could develop a plug-and-play vision module that speeds up object detection for KUKA arms—or a drag-and-drop programming interface that simplifies reconfiguring tasks on the fly.

One smart approach is to improve what’s already there. If KUKA robots have basic sensors, can you make them smarter? If their software is complex, can you simplify it?

In terms of intellectual property, there’s good space to play if you aim at application-specific tools. You might file a patent for a robot accessory that makes electronics packaging more efficient or an AI system that helps optimize KUKA robots based on real-time job changes.

The key is to innovate in a space where the user already exists—KUKA has already done the hard work of building the customer base.

18. Mitsubishi Electric has installed over 200,000 industrial robots.

Mitsubishi Electric’s robots are known for their precision and performance, especially in compact, fast-moving production environments. Having more than 200,000 installations means there’s a real demand for automation at smaller scales—and that’s a space where innovation can really thrive.

Unlike some of the bigger players focused on heavy-duty tasks, Mitsubishi’s systems are often used in assembly, packaging, or electronics. If your business is developing tech that helps with vision alignment, micro-assembly, or AI-powered object recognition, targeting Mitsubishi’s robots is a strong move.

Think about what small-scale manufacturers need. They often want smarter, easier-to-use tools that don’t require a full team of engineers to manage. So if you’re building software or hardware that simplifies deployment or reduces errors, there’s real value here.

Patent opportunities include tools that improve robotic positioning, compact modular attachments, or even mobile interfaces that help manage Mitsubishi robots via tablet or phone. This is a very practical space, so your innovation should make day-to-day life easier for users.

Patent opportunities include tools that improve robotic positioning, compact modular attachments, or even mobile interfaces that help manage Mitsubishi robots via tablet or phone. This is a very practical space, so your innovation should make day-to-day life easier for users.

19. Kawasaki has over 200,000 robot units installed globally.

Kawasaki’s robots are widely used across a range of sectors—especially automotive, general manufacturing, and even pharmaceuticals. Their systems are built for performance and are often chosen for tasks that require speed, repeatability, and cleanliness.

With more than 200,000 robots out there, Kawasaki offers a strong base for integration. Their robots tend to have clean, straightforward interfaces, which makes them easier to work with for developers looking to build complementary tech.

So how do you take advantage of this? If you’re building AI-powered inspection systems, smart safety shields, or even cloud-based tools that track robot performance, Kawasaki’s customer base is likely to see value—especially in high-speed or high-precision environments.

For IP, consider applications in cleanroom robotics or pharma automation. Can your tool make pharmaceutical packaging more accurate? Can it improve compliance with health regulations? If so, filing a utility patent around the function and integration method can give you solid protection.

20. Universal Robots has installed more than 75,000 cobots worldwide.

Universal Robots (UR) has made collaborative robotics mainstream, especially for small and mid-sized companies.

With more than 75,000 units in the field, UR cobots are now common in everything from machine tending to quality inspection to simple material handling.

What makes UR’s ecosystem exciting is the openness. They’ve built a UR+ platform that allows third parties to develop hardware and software that plugs right into their robots.

That means if you build a product that works well with UR’s systems, you can potentially get listed and distributed through their platform.

For product developers, this is huge. Whether you’re building a smart gripper, a cloud dashboard, or a safety sensor, designing it to fit into UR’s ecosystem gives you instant exposure. Plus, you’re not starting from scratch—you’re helping 75,000 users do their jobs better.

From a patent point of view, think about human-machine interaction, task automation, or real-time learning. The cobot space is still young compared to traditional robotics, so there’s a lot of room to file meaningful, high-value patents.

21. China represents over 50% of all annual industrial robot installations globally.

This stat is a wake-up call: China is the center of robot growth. Over half of all new robots each year are going to Chinese factories, especially in automotive, electronics, and logistics. That’s a huge market opportunity.

If your product or patent strategy doesn’t include China, you’re missing out on the biggest robotics market in the world.

Whether you’re building a new type of vision system or developing productivity software, you should consider localization, language support, and local compliance from the beginning.

For patent holders, China has improved its IP enforcement. It’s still important to register your patents locally, especially utility models or design patents.

Filing first in China (or at least filing early) can help you avoid problems later, particularly if you plan to license or distribute your technology in that market.

Also, many of China’s robotics buyers are looking for fast, affordable solutions. That’s where plug-and-play add-ons or cloud software tools that don’t require complex setup can thrive.

22. FANUC is the leading supplier in China by number of installations.

Even in the booming Chinese market, FANUC stands tall. They’re the top supplier by number of installed robots, thanks to their trusted brand and long history in automation.

For entrepreneurs and developers, this means one thing: if you want to get into the Chinese market, being FANUC-compatible gives you a head start. Chinese factories that already use FANUC will be more open to tools or products that build on that investment.

One effective strategy is to develop AI-based monitoring tools, mobile apps for diagnostics, or predictive maintenance tools tailored for FANUC systems. These types of products don’t require replacing hardware—they just make it smarter.

If you’re filing a patent, it’s wise to focus on enhancements, not replacements. FANUC’s market presence makes them hard to compete with directly, but easy to build upon. Also, consider filing your patent in both the US and China to protect your tech on both sides of the global supply chain.

If you’re filing a patent, it’s wise to focus on enhancements, not replacements. FANUC’s market presence makes them hard to compete with directly, but easy to build upon. Also, consider filing your patent in both the US and China to protect your tech on both sides of the global supply chain.

23. ABB leads in European robot installations, especially in automotive and electronics sectors.

ABB’s dominance in Europe isn’t just about volume—it’s about trust and integration. European factories, especially in automotive and electronics, rely heavily on ABB systems due to their reliability, strong support network, and strict safety standards.

For startups and developers in Europe or targeting European clients, building tools, accessories, or software that fits into ABB’s workflow can offer big returns.

Think about safety certification, energy monitoring, or smart production planning tools. The more seamlessly your product works within ABB’s robot environment, the more attractive it becomes to European buyers.

Also, ABB has a strong emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. If your product helps reduce power usage, optimize processes, or lower waste, it’s worth building a patent strategy around that.

In Europe, patents that promote sustainability tend to get more favorable examination and market interest.

Use ABB’s presence as a gateway. Develop enhancements that make their already-trusted robots more useful and future-ready.

24. Yaskawa has a dominant presence in Japan, with more than 150,000 robots installed domestically.

In Japan, Yaskawa is more than a brand—it’s a pillar of industry. Their deep roots in Japanese manufacturing and over 150,000 robots installed within the country make them the go-to for companies focused on quality and longevity.

If you’re targeting Japan, localization is key. Your software interface, manuals, and even patent documentation should be translated and culturally adapted. Japanese companies tend to prefer reliability and precision over flashiness, so make sure your solution is solid and dependable.

You’ll also find opportunities in aging workforce automation. Many Japanese factories are investing in robotics to make up for labor shortages. If you have tech that enhances robot ease-of-use, training, or remote management, that’s a smart direction.

Patent-wise, file locally in Japan if you plan to market there. Many startups miss this step and lose protection. Japan’s patent office is efficient and often rewards practical, high-quality inventions—especially in robotics and automation.

25. KUKA is the top supplier for automotive manufacturing robots in Germany.

Germany is the heart of Europe’s automotive sector, and KUKA is its top robot supplier. From welding and gluing to painting and assembly, KUKA robots are everywhere in German car factories. This puts KUKA at the center of one of the most demanding industrial environments on earth.

So what does this mean for you? If you’re building robotics-related tools or technology that improve production line speed, quality control, or flexibility, consider optimizing it for KUKA systems. Automotive environments demand solutions that are fast, precise, and dependable.

From a patent perspective, this is a golden zone. Technologies that reduce cycle times, enhance inspection, or improve worker-robot collaboration can have high licensing potential in the automotive sector.

Aim to file in Germany or under the European Patent Convention to maximize protection and commercial potential.

If you want to break into Europe’s manufacturing space, think KUKA-first and automotive-ready.

26. Cobots now account for over 10% of total robot installations annually.

Collaborative robots (cobots) have shifted the automation conversation. No longer confined to cages or needing safety fences, cobots now work side-by-side with people.

The fact that they now make up more than 10% of total installations shows that companies everywhere—from small shops to global manufacturers—are seeing their value.

For inventors and companies, this is a market still in growth mode. Cobots need smart software, quick deployment tools, and accessories that make them more useful across tasks. Products like universal grippers, modular AI apps, or learning tools for task training can all find room in this space.

The collaborative aspect also means safety and usability are top concerns. There’s a lot of space for IP in collision detection systems, intuitive control interfaces, or smart safety zones.

Filing patents around human-robot interaction, especially if you’re offering a smoother or safer experience, gives you a major advantage.

This is a space to watch—and enter—sooner rather than later.

This is a space to watch—and enter—sooner rather than later.

27. The top four vendors (FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa, KUKA) hold over 50% of the global industrial robotics market.

When four companies hold more than half the market, you pay attention. FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa, and KUKA aren’t just popular—they shape the standards for industrial robotics globally. Their platforms, protocols, and programming environments influence everything else.

So how do you compete—or thrive—when the big players dominate? The answer is to innovate in the gaps they leave behind. These companies focus on volume, reliability, and standardization.

That leaves room for more agile startups to create specialty tools, enhancements, or add-ons that they don’t have time to build.

From a strategy standpoint, make your tech compatible with one or more of these ecosystems. It makes your solution easier to sell, easier to adopt, and more attractive for licensing or acquisition.

For patents, aim to file on integrations, data conversion tools, and application-specific workflows that these major platforms don’t yet offer. Sometimes it’s not about the robot—it’s about what the robot can’t do without your help.

28. Annual robot installations worldwide exceeded 550,000 units in 2023.

More than 550,000 robots were installed globally in just one year. That means the demand for automation is exploding—and it’s not just in large factories anymore. SMEs, labs, warehouses, and even farms are adopting robots to fill labor gaps and boost efficiency.

If you’re an inventor or a startup, this is your signal. The world is hungry for automation—and not just in the form of traditional robotic arms. Think mobile robots, AI-enabled vision systems, remote diagnostics platforms, or even robot-as-a-service business models.

When filing patents, focus on scalability. Can your idea work across sectors? Can it be adapted easily for food, pharma, logistics, or electronics? The broader your tech can stretch, the more valuable your IP becomes.

This is a once-in-a-generation wave of growth. Ride it now while the adoption curve is still climbing.

29. Automotive and electronics industries account for over 60% of global robot installations.

The majority of robots go into two industries: automotive and electronics. These sectors are automation-heavy because of high-volume production, precise assembly, and the need for constant uptime.

For anyone building robotics-related products, targeting these industries first just makes sense. They have the budgets, the urgency, and the infrastructure to adopt new tech quickly.

If you’re developing something new, consider what these industries value most—speed, repeatability, data, and reliability. A robot health monitoring system, a quality inspection AI, or a tool that reduces downtime during changeovers can all be highly attractive.

From a patent angle, focusing on solutions that can plug into these production lines—without stopping them—is key. If your invention helps robots switch tasks faster, operate more safely, or improve traceability, you’re in good shape to file meaningful IP and gain interest from buyers or licensees.

30. The Asia-Pacific region accounts for nearly 70% of all robot shipments annually.

Asia-Pacific is the heart of the global robotics supply chain. With 70% of annual robot shipments going to countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and India, this region is where growth and innovation are happening fast.

If you’re not building with Asia in mind, it’s time to start. That could mean localizing your product for different languages, power standards, or compliance rules. It also means filing your patents in key APAC countries—especially China, Japan, and South Korea.

The region is also incredibly diverse. What works in a Tokyo electronics plant might not work in an Indian food processing line. So if you’re building automation tools, think modular and adaptable. Your solution should be easy to customize and deploy in different settings.

For startups and tech firms, partnering with local robotics integrators or distributors in Asia can accelerate adoption. And for IP, make sure you file in the regions where your tech will be used—not just where it’s invented.

For startups and tech firms, partnering with local robotics integrators or distributors in Asia can accelerate adoption. And for IP, make sure you file in the regions where your tech will be used—not just where it’s invented.

wrapping it up

The robotics industry is full of movement—fast growth, global expansion, and increasing complexity. Whether you’re a founder, inventor, or investor, understanding who the top players are and where the installations are happening gives you a serious edge.