Zoho Bets Big on AI and Robotics with Kerala Campus & Startup Buyout
- Zoho acquires Asimov Robotics to strengthen its AI and robotics capabilities, integrating the team into its new R&D campus in Kottarakkara, Kerala.
- Launch of Deep-Tech Product Studio in collaboration with Kerala Startup Mission to support startups and researchers with infrastructure and mentorship.
- Focus on rural innovation and talent development through decentralised R&D, strategic collaborations, and a structured internship-to-employment program.
In a bold move to strengthen its footprint in cutting-edge technologies, Zoho Corporation has acquired Kochi-based deep-tech startup Asimov Robotics. The acquisition was officially announced on July 2 during the inauguration of Zoho’s new state-of-the-art Research and Development (R&D) campus in Kottarakkara, Kerala.
This strategic acquisition highlights Zoho’s growing commitment to artificial intelligence, robotics, and next-generation technologies. Founded by Jayakrishnan T, Asimov Robotics is widely recognized for its innovative humanoid and industrial robotic solutions and gained national attention during the COVID-19 pandemic for deploying robots to aid frontline healthcare workers.
With the acquisition, Asimov’s entire team will become part of Zoho’s expanding R&D ecosystem while continuing operations from the newly launched Kottarakkara facility. The campus, which accommodates 250 employees, is part of Zoho’s broader decentralisation strategy aimed at empowering rural India through high-quality employment and innovation opportunities.
Speaking at the launch, Zoho Co-founder and CEO Shailesh Davey said, “The Kottarakkara campus will enhance our R&D capabilities, starting with AI and robotics. Our focus is on building self-reliant technology capabilities within India, and fostering innovation from rural regions is central to that mission”.
In addition to the acquisition, Zoho announced the launch of a 'Deep-Tech Product Studio' in collaboration with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM). The studio is designed to support startups and researchers by providing them with access to mentorship, infrastructure, and real-world testing environments. Zoho will act as the first industry partner in this initiative.
Further reinforcing its R&D ambitions, Zoho revealed strategic collaborations with several institutions and emerging startups, including IIT Bombay, Boson Motors India, Vipus Advanced Materials, and Zentron Labs. These partnerships will focus on advancing clean energy solutions, healthcare technologies, semiconductor innovation, and other frontier sectors.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Finance Minister K N Balagopal led the inauguration ceremony. Balagopal lauded the initiative as a transformative model for decentralized, innovation-driven growth. “This collaboration with Zoho marks a pivotal moment in Kerala’s deep-tech ecosystem. It exemplifies how industry, academia, skilling, and local governance can converge to drive sustainable IP creation and employment,” he stated.
Zoho’s rural innovation model is further supported by a structured nine-month internship programme, which starts with a three-month training in programming languages such as C, C++, and Python. Interns then participate in live projects, with top performers transitioning to full-time roles. So far, 40 local talents have joined Zoho through this programme.
Zoho Co-founder and Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu and Zoho US CEO Tony Thomas were also present at the event. “This is not just about expanding infrastructure it’s about cultivating a culture of innovation deeply rooted in India’s heartland”, Vembu said.
