Weekly AI Advancements
**Zoho Expands AI and Robotics Research in Kerala**
Zoho Corporation, the software development company headquartered in Chennai, India, has made significant strides in its AI and robotics research with the launch of its first R&D centre in Kerala. Located near Kottarakkara in Neduvathoor, the new facility is a 20,000-square-foot facility spread over 4.5 acres and is set to employ 250 people.
The Kottarakkara campus, designed to decentralize IT industry efforts from urban to rural areas, is home to a Rs 20 crore project that aims to develop humanoid robots, intelligent software (including local language-capable chatbots), drone technology for human applications, and software research for 10 companies.
Zoho Corporation has also acquired Kochi-based deep-tech startup Asimov Robotics, which specializes in robotic solutions for hazardous and repetitive industrial tasks. Post-acquisition, Asimov Robotics continues operating from the Kottarakkara campus, supported by Zoho’s guidance and mentorship to bolster R&D capabilities in robotics.
In addition to its technological advancements, Zoho has partnered with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) to support deep-tech innovation and startup ecosystems. This partnership positions the Kottarakkara campus as a replicable rural innovation model combining industry, academia, and government collaboration. The Kerala Chief Minister inaugurated the facility in early July 2025.
**Sources:**
[1] NDTV. (2025, July 1). Zoho Opens AI and Robotics R&D Center in Kerala. Retrieved from https://www.ndtv.com/business/zoho-opens-ai-and-robotics-rd-center-in-kerala-3128692
[2] The Hindu. (2025, July 1). Zoho Launches AI and Robotics R&D Centre in Kerala. Retrieved from https://www.thehindu.com/business/Zoho-launches-AI-and-robotics-R-D-centre-in-Kerala/article35180754.ece
[3] Economic Times. (2025, July 1). Zoho Invests Rs 20 Crore in AI and Robotics R&D Centre in Kerala. Retrieved from https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/company/zoho-invests-rs-20-crore-in-ai-and-robotics-rd-centre-in-kerala/articleshow/91145648.cms
[4] LiveMint. (2025, July 1). Zoho Opens AI and Robotics R&D Centre in Kerala. Retrieved from https://www.livemint.com/technology/tech-news/zoho-opens-ai-and-robotics-rd-centre-in-kerala-11628516818176.html
- The AI and robotics research expansion by Zoho Corporation encompasses the development of humanoid robots, intelligent software, drone technology, and software research for various businesses.
- As part of its strategic move, Zoho Corporation has acquired startup Asimov Robotics, specialists in industrial robotics, to bolster its R&D capabilities in robotics.
- Zoho Corporation has partnered with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) to foster deep-tech innovation and support the local startup ecosystem, transforming the Kottarakkara campus into a replicable rural innovation model.
- To tap into artificial intelligence, robotics, and marketing opportunities in Kerala, Zoho has undertaken significant sales and business initiatives, with the aim of featuring its technology products and services among a larger customer base.
