In a recent development, technology firm Zoho has taken over Asimov Robotics, with the robotics startup and its workers to now operate within Zoho's fresh facility in Kottarakkara, Kerala.
Zoho Corporation, a leading technology solutions provider, has made a significant move in expanding its artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics capabilities in India by acquiring Kochi-based deep-tech startup Asimov Robotics. The acquisition was officially announced during the inauguration of Zoho's new Research and Development (R&D) campus in Kottarakkara, Kerala, on July 2, 2025.
Founded in 2012 by Jayakrishnan T, Asimov Robotics is renowned for its advanced robotic solutions, including humanoid service robots like Sayabot V1 and KARMI-Bot, which gained national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic for their applications in hospital logistics and care. The startup excels in creating highly customizable, human-like robotic twins that address hazardous, repetitive, and unsafe tasks in various industries, from healthcare to space missions.
The acquisition aligns with Zoho’s strategic push to deepen its capabilities in robotics and AI-driven innovation, particularly by fostering deep-tech development within India’s rural and emerging tech hubs. Post-acquisition, Asimov Robotics’ team is integrated into Zoho’s new Kottarakkara campus and will continue their operations with close mentorship and collaboration from Zoho’s in-house experts, enhancing synergy in R&D efforts.
This development represents Zoho’s broader commitment to building cutting-edge technology solutions from regions outside the traditional metropolitan centers, focusing on creating global-scale innovation in AI and robotics rooted in India's rural areas. Zoho’s Co-founder Shailesh Davey emphasized that the Kottarakkara campus will be dedicated to enhancing AI and robotics projects and collaborating with other deep-tech organizations to broaden their impact.
In addition to the acquisition, Zoho has partnered with the Kerala Startup Mission to support its Deep Tech Product Studio initiative, aiming to create intellectual property (IP), product research and development, and knowledge development from rural areas. To date, 40 employees have been onboarded through the program.
The new campus, which can accommodate up to 250 employees, will initially focus on AI and robotics. Zoho has also launched a structured internship program at the campus, offering full-time positions to successful interns. The company has been hiring local talent from nearby towns and villages, reinforcing its decentralization strategy.
The Kottarakkara office is not just a step forward for Zoho but also signifies a growing emphasis on AI and robotics innovation embedded in the Indian startup ecosystem outside major urban centers. This move is expected to facilitate a digital workforce transformation across industries, bolstering India's position in the global technology landscape.
[1] The Economic Times, "Zoho Acquires Kochi-based Asimov Robotics to Strengthen AI and Robotics Capabilities," July 2, 2025. [2] The Hindu BusinessLine, "Zoho Opens New R&D Campus in Kottarakkara, Kerala," July 2, 2025. [3] Deccan Herald, "Zoho Acquires Asimov Robotics: A New Era for AI and Robotics in Rural India," July 2, 2025. [4] LiveMint, "Zoho's New R&D Campus in Kottarakkara: A Model for Decentralized Innovation," July 5, 2025.
- The acquisition of Kochi-based Asimov Robotics by Zoho Corporation is a significant step to strengthen Zoho's AI and robotics capabilities, marking a new chapter in innovation and technology development.
- Asimov Robotics, a startup renowned for its advanced robotic solutions, will now be an integral part of Zoho's technology ecosystem, collaborating with in-house experts for R&D efforts and mentorship.
- With the new R&D campus in Kottarakkara, Zoho is pushing the boundaries of innovation, focusing on developing cutting-edge technology solutions from rural areas and contributing to the creation of global-scale AI and robotics innovation.
- To further bolster its decentralization strategy, Zoho has partnered with the Kerala Startup Mission and onboarded local talent from nearby towns and villages, reinforcing its commitment toIndia's deep-tech development and entrepreneurship.
- The new Kottarakkara campus emphasizes AI and robotics, with initial focus on these areas, along with a structured internship program, offering opportunities for young, skilled professionals to contribute to Zoho's growth and success.
- This strategic move by Zoho is expected to catalyze a digital workforce transformation across industries in India, enhancing the country's position in the global technology landscape and setting an example for the decentralization of innovation within the startup ecosystem.
