LG Innotek Co. is teaming up with Boston Dynamics Inc. to develop advanced vision sensing systems for the latter’s humanoid robot Atlas, as the South Korean firm seeks to reduce its dependence on Apple Inc.
The partnership announced Monday will have LG Innotek leading development of vision systems integrating camera and 3D sensing components, while Boston Dynamics handles software for processing sensor data. The technology will serve as “eyes” for next-generation Atlas robots, allowing them to perceive surroundings even in poor visibility conditions.
For LG Innotek, the collaboration represents a strategic pivot away from its heavy reliance on Apple, where it’s been a key supplier of camera modules for iPhones and 3D sensing modules for Vision Pro headsets. As Apple has diversified its supplier base, LG Innotek has faced increasing pressure to find new markets.
The South Korean component maker has been expanding into automotive parts for self-driving vehicles, robot components, and flip chip ball grid array substrates. Last year, it invested in humanoid robotics startup Figure AI during a $675 million funding round and signed an agreement with KAIST to develop robotics technology.
Boston Dynamics, acquired by Hyundai Motor Group in 2021, recently unveiled a new all-electric version of Atlas designed for real-world applications.
LG Innotek CEO Moon Hyuk-soo indicated the company plans to expand its collaboration with Boston Dynamics beyond optical sensors.
