Ant Group, the financial technology giant affiliated with Alibaba, is significantly expanding its footprint in the burgeoning humanoid robotics sector. The company recently spearheaded a 500 million yuan ($73.58 million) funding round for Zeroth, a prominent player in humanoid robotics. This strategic investment marks Ant Group’s 12th foray into the robotics and AI space since the beginning of 2025, underscoring a determined push into advanced automation.

The latest funding round for Zeroth, a company also known as Suzhou JoyIn Intelligent Technology in China, brings its total raised capital to 1 billion yuan. Zeroth’s founder, Guo Renjie, highlighted the company’s focus on integrating expertise from sectors like smartphone chip manufacturing, noting that their current robots utilize chips from Horizon Robotics. Zeroth aims to develop humanoid robots for domestic use, initially focusing on companion robots for elder and pet care, with future plans for educational robots for children.

This move by Ant Group aligns with a broader trend of increasing interest and investment in humanoid robotics within China. The company has been actively diversifying its offerings since regulatory hurdles impacted its IPO plans in 2020. Beyond its core mobile payments service, Alipay, Ant Group has launched a healthcare app and developed its own artificial intelligence models. Furthermore, it established a dedicated humanoid robot subsidiary, RobbyAnt, which has already developed its own robotic prototypes. The integration of AI and robotics into its Alipay platform is also a key area where Zeroth sees potential for collaboration.

Zeroth reports substantial growth, with over 30,000 units ordered and a 600% surge in operating revenue during the first half of the year. The company also has ambitions for international expansion, planning to launch sales in North America and Europe in the coming months, pending regulatory approvals. The increased activity in the humanoid robotics field is further evidenced by other major tech players, such as Nvidia, which has recently expanded its robotics-focused hiring in China.

Key Takeaways

• Ant Group has led a $73.58 million funding round in humanoid robotics startup Zeroth, marking its 12th investment in the sector since early 2025.
• Zeroth plans to develop companion robots for elder and pet care, followed by educational robots for children, with ambitions for international sales.
• The investment reflects a growing trend of major tech companies, including Ant Group and Nvidia, increasing their focus and investment in humanoid robotics in China.

Editor’s Analysis & Impact

Ant Group’s aggressive investment strategy in humanoid robotics signals a significant strategic pivot, likely aimed at diversifying its business beyond financial services and capitalizing on the rapidly evolving AI and automation landscape. By backing multiple startups like Zeroth, Ant Group is not only fostering innovation but also building a robust ecosystem for its own AI and robotics initiatives, potentially integrating these technologies into its vast user base via Alipay. This push could redefine elder care, domestic assistance, and even entertainment, positioning Ant Group as a key player in the next wave of technological advancement. The global race for humanoid robot dominance is intensifying, and Ant Group’s multi-pronged approach suggests a long-term commitment to securing a leading market position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Zeroth Robotics?
A: Zeroth Robotics, also known as Suzhou JoyIn Intelligent Technology in China, is a startup focused on developing humanoid robots. They are currently developing companion robots for elder and pet care, with plans for educational robots for children.

Q: Why is Ant Group investing heavily in humanoid robots?
A: Ant Group appears to be diversifying its business portfolio and capitalizing on the growing AI and automation market. Following regulatory challenges, the company has been actively investing in AI and robotics, potentially to integrate these technologies into its existing platforms like Alipay and to explore new service areas.

Q: What is the significance of Ant Group's investment in Zeroth?
A: This investment is significant as it represents Ant Group's 12th investment in the humanoid robotics sector since early 2025, demonstrating a strong commitment. It also provides Zeroth with crucial funding and potential strategic partnerships, accelerating their development and market entry plans.