While the publicly traded robotics market is not as extensive as other sectors, several companies are known for their significant contributions to the field. Many of these aren’t “startups,” but established companies with divisions focused on robotics and automation.

Robotics vs. Unmanned

Because friends ask me, here’s the difference between Robotics and Unmanned. “Robotics” refers to the broad field of designing, building, and operating robots, while “unmanned” describes systems, like robots or drones, that operate without a human pilot or driver onboard, instead using remote control or onboard artificial intelligence for guidance and operation. In essence, robotics is the discipline, and unmanned is a functional characteristic that applies to many devices, including robots, that don’t have a human operator present. 

• Definition: A scientific and engineering field focused on creating machines, or robots, that can perform tasks to substitute or mimic human actions. 
• Scope: Includes designing, building, and programming various types of robots, such as industrial robots, service robots, and mobile robots. 
• Function: Robots are electro-mechanical machines controlled by computer programs or circuitry to perform specific, often repetitive, tasks with efficiency and precision. 

Robotics and Automation Companies

• Intuitive Surgical (ISRG): A pioneer in robotic-assisted surgery, the company’s da Vinci Surgical System is widely used by surgeons for minimally invasive procedures.
• Teradyne (TER): This company manufactures automated test systems and robotics products. Its robotics segment includes Universal Robots, a leader in collaborative robots (“cobots”) that can work safely alongside people.
• UiPath (PATH): UiPath is a leader in robotic process automation (RPA) software. Its platform uses AI to help businesses automate repetitive tasks.
• Zebra Technologies (ZBRA): Known for its enterprise asset intelligence solutions, Zebra offers a range of software and hardware products, including autonomous mobile robots used in logistics and supply chain operations.
• Serve Robotics (SERV): This company focuses on developing and operating low-emission robots for food delivery in public spaces.
• ABB (ABBNY): A large industrial conglomerate, ABB has one of the world’s largest industrial robotics businesses, creating robotic arms and controllers for various manufacturing tasks.