Foxconn's Robotics Bet: Can 'Embodied AI' Save Manufacturing?

In the rapidly evolving manufacturing sector, companies are increasingly turning to advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and address labor challenges. Foxconn, a global leader in electronics manufacturing, is making significant strides by integrating 'embodied AI' robotics into its production processes.​

Embodied AI refers to robots equipped with artificial intelligence that allows them to perceive, learn, and interact with their environment in real-time. Unlike traditional robots that follow pre-programmed instructions, embodied AI robots can adapt to dynamic manufacturing settings, making them invaluable for complex assembly tasks.​

Foxconn's Strategic Collaboration with eBots

In February 2025, Foxconn partnered with eBots Inc., a pioneer in embodied AI robotics, to enhance precision manufacturing. The collaboration led to the development of the eBots-IDO-02 robot, which successfully passed Foxconn's Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). This robot demonstrated exceptional reliability, achieving a 99.5% production yield on high-end electronics lines. Notably, a single eBots-IDO-02 robot's output equaled that of four human workers, significantly boosting productivity and mitigating workforce availability risks.

Integration with NVIDIA Technologies

Foxconn's commitment to AI-driven manufacturing is further evidenced by its collaboration with NVIDIA. In October 2023, Foxconn and NVIDIA announced plans to build AI factories utilizing NVIDIA's GPU computing infrastructure. These factories are designed to process vast amounts of data, transforming them into valuable AI models. The initiative aims to digitalize manufacturing and inspection workflows, develop AI-powered robotics platforms, and support generative AI services.

Advancements in Digital Twin Technology

Foxconn is also leveraging digital twin technology, creating virtual replicas of manufacturing processes to optimize production. In November 2024, the company showcased the development of a 3D digital twin using NVIDIA's Omniverse platform. This technology allows Foxconn to simulate and plan automated production lines, enhancing global deployment and operational resilience. The digital twin approach enables rapid scaling and precise replication of production lines across various locations, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency.

Launch of 'FoxBrain' Large Language Model

Furthering its AI initiatives, Foxconn unveiled 'FoxBrain' in March 2025, a large language model aimed at enhancing manufacturing and supply chain management. Developed with 120 of NVIDIA's H100 GPUs, FoxBrain is optimized for traditional Chinese and Taiwanese language styles. It supports applications in data analysis, decision-making, document collaboration, and problem-solving, underscoring Foxconn's dedication to integrating AI across its operations.

Foxconn's investments in AI and robotics have yielded positive financial outcomes. The company reported record first-quarter revenues in April 2025, driven largely by robust demand for AI products. Notably, the cloud and networking products division, supported by clients like NVIDIA, saw significant growth. However, Foxconn remains cautious, acknowledging the need to monitor global political and economic conditions, especially amid U.S.-China trade tensions and new tariffs affecting Chinese and Taiwanese goods.

Foxconn's strategic integration of embodied AI and robotics positions it at the forefront of manufacturing innovation. By embracing these technologies, Foxconn aims to overcome labor challenges, enhance productivity, and maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly changing global market.