Swiss robotics company, Anybotics, has closed its Series B funding round with an impressive $110 million, thanks to a $60 million in fresh funding. The funding comes 18 months after the company announced the initial $50 million round, reflecting growing investor confidence in the potential of autonomous robots for industrial applications.
Founded in 2016 as a spinout from ETH Zurich, Anybotics is the creator of Anymal, a four-legged autonomous inspection robot equipped with high-tech sensors and cameras. These robots are designed to perform critical monitoring tasks in industrial environments, including identifying thermal anomalies for preventive maintenance or detecting hazardous gases.
“Industrial environments can be dangerous and complex,” says Dr. Péter Fankhauser, co-founder and CEO of Anybotics. “Our robots minimize human exposure to risky areas, streamline maintenance tasks, and improve operational reliability.”
The Rise of Anymal Robots
Anymal robots have made significant inroads into industries such as oil and gas, mining, power, utilities, and metals. With nearly 200 units deployed globally, customers include major players like:
- Novelis: Aluminum rolling and recycling.
- Iamgold: Gold mining operations.
- Stelco: Steel milling processes.
- Stanford University: Advanced research applications.
Fleet orders are becoming the norm, with some clients deploying up to 20 robots across multiple sites. “Our customers operate over 100 facilities worldwide, and many see the potential to deploy multiple Anymal robots per location,” Fankhauser notes.
Why the Series B Extension?
Unlike a move to Series C funding, Anybotics chose to extend its Series B round. Why? The focus remains on scaling the company’s core operations globally, particularly in the United States, where it recently opened a new office in San Francisco.
“The Series C will focus on broader growth, targeting new applications and industries,” explains Fankhauser. This suggests that the next funding round, expected in 2026, could be significantly larger as the company diversifies its portfolio.
Strategic Backing
The Series B extension was co-led by Qualcomm Ventures and Supernova Invest, with participation from a mix of existing and new investors, including:
- Bessemer Venture Partners
- Nokia-backed NGP Capital
- Swisscanto
- Swisscom Ventures
- TDK Ventures
- Walden Catalyst
The Future of Industrial Automation
As Anybotics scales its operations, it’s tapping into the growing demand for automation in industrial settings. Anymal robots are poised to refine routine inspections, enhancing safety and efficiency while reducing costs.
Imagine a factory where human workers no longer need to climb hazardous structures to check for issues. Instead, Anymal robots can navigate these environments autonomously with features like thermal sensors and gas detectors to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What’s Next for Anybotics?
With $130 million raised to date, Anybotics is well-positioned to continue its global expansion. The U.S. market, a key focus, offers vast opportunities for deploying autonomous robotics in sectors that prioritize safety, efficiency, and innovation.
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Looking ahead, the company plans to introduce new applications and broaden its reach across industries. While the next major funding round won’t arrive until 2026, it’s clear that Anybotics is laying the groundwork for a transformative future in robotics.
Are Autonomous Robots the Upgrade Our Industries Need?
The manufacturing industry has its woes: accidents. There are hazardous chemical plants, and sprawling mining sites, and Anymal robots are proving indispensable. They allow businesses to:
- Conduct inspections more frequently.
- Access hard-to-reach or dangerous areas.
- Gather more accurate data with advanced sensors.
This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about protecting lives and ensuring business continuity.
A Bright Future for Robotics
Anybotics will continue to innovate. And the question isn’t whether autonomous robots will become the norm in industrial settings, it’s how quickly they’ll take over. With the support of strategic investors and a clear vision for the future, Anybotics is paving the way for safer, more efficient industrial operations worldwide. The future is here, and it’s walking on four legs.
