The Swiss robotics sector is rapidly evolving, with companies like Anybotics leading the charge in innovation and application. Founded in 2016 as a spin-off from ETH Zurich, Anybotics has positioned itself at the forefront of industrial automation through its creation of the Anymal robot—a quadruped autonomous inspection device designed to navigate complex and hazardous environments. With a fresh influx of capital totaling $60 million, bringing its recent Series B funding round to a substantial $110 million, the company is set to further its mission of enhancing safety and efficiency in industrial operations.
The Anymal robot is outfitted with an array of sensors and cameras that allow for comprehensive monitoring of industrial settings. It is engineered to perform a variety of tasks, from identifying thermal anomalies in systems to detecting combustible gases, which are crucial for ensuring operational safety. According to Anybotics co-founder and CEO Dr. Péter Fankhauser, “Anybotics addresses the challenge of performing routine inspections in complex and hazardous industrial environments.” The automation of these inspections significantly reduces human exposure to risky areas and minimizes downtime through more rigorous and consistent monitoring.
As organizations across industries increasingly recognize the value of automation, Anybotics has seen its deployment numbers soar. The company proudly reports that nearly 200 Anymal robots are currently operational across key sectors, including oil and gas, mining, energy, and manufacturing. This widespread adoption underscores the robot’s practical utility and effectiveness in navigating and checking industrial sites.
Anybotics has gained the trust of a diverse array of high-profile clients, including industry giants like Novelis and Iamgold, as well as institutions such as Stanford University. This impressive portfolio illustrates the robot’s versatility across sectors, from aluminum recycling to gold mining. Fankhauser notes a rising trend among clients to scale their operations, with orders now commonly ranging from single units to entire fleets. Many industrial clients operate multiple facilities worldwide, highlighting the potential for significant growth as the demand for robotic solutions continues to rise.
Not only does this trend reinforce the advantages of deploying Anymal, as it enhances the frequency and accuracy of inspections, but it also points to a larger shift toward automation in the industry. As companies seek to adapt to modern challenges, Anybotics stands poised to facilitate that transition.
Strategic Funding and Future Prospects
The recent funding round, which sees Anybotics raising a total of $130 million to date, underscores investor confidence in the company’s trajectory. Notably, the latest $60 million round was co-led by Qualcomm Ventures and Supernova Invest, alongside other prominent backers like Bessemer Venture Partners and Nokia-backed NGP Capital. Dr. Fankhauser clarified that this funding round is positioned as an extension of their Series B efforts rather than a new Series C. The strategic focus on global expansion, particularly into the U.S. market, reflects Anybotics’ commitment to scaling its existing operations.
Looking ahead, Fankhauser hinted at a Series C that would delve into broader growth dynamics, potentially expanding the company’s product lines and exploring new application possibilities across diverse industries. However, significant capital injections in this new venture may not be realized until 2026. This forward-thinking approach illustrates the need to establish a robust foundation before venturing into new territories—a strategy indicative of prudent business leadership.
Anybotics’ recent achievements and funding victories highlight the company’s pivotal role in shaping the landscape of industrial robotics. With the Anymal robot already making waves across multiple sectors, Anybotics has positioned itself to greatly improve operational efficacy while ensuring safety in potentially dangerous environments. As more companies embrace the necessity of automation, Anybotics stands ready to lead this transformation—building a future where advanced robotics becomes integral to global industrial operations. The forthcoming years will likely showcase significant advancements, as Anybotics continues to innovate and expand its reach across the globe.