SoftBank Group is considering a possible acquisition of Allied Universal, a U.S. security services provider, in a deal that could value the company’s equity at about $18 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.
The discussions remain preliminary. No final decision or price has been set, Reuters reported, citing Bloomberg News.
Allied Universal provides security personnel and services for businesses, venues and major events.
It also works with data centres, where security needs can change as facilities move from construction to daily operations.
Those sites may need staff to manage access, monitor premises and respond to incidents.
For SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son, Allied could offer a way to connect the company’s expanding AI and robotics interests with real-world operations.
SoftBank has explored using AI-powered robots in different industries. However, the reported acquisition would not mean that robotic guards are ready to replace human teams.
Where robots could fit in security work
Security robots can support routine tasks such as patrolling an area, monitoring equipment or sending alerts when they detect unusual activity.
These jobs often involve repeated checks across large sites. A robot can gather information continuously and share it with a human monitoring team.
Still, security work also requires judgment. Staff may need to speak with visitors, assess unfamiliar situations or respond to emergencies.
Robots can assist with monitoring, but replacing people across those duties would require reliable technology and clear rules for human oversight.
Allied Universal already offers robotics and autonomous security devices as part of its technology services.
The company describes these tools as a way to extend patrol coverage and support staff.
That existing business could give SoftBank a base for testing automation, although any future deployment would depend on customer needs and practical results.
A potential addition to SoftBank’s robotics strategy
SoftBank has made robotics a growing part of its technology plans. In 2025, it agreed to acquire ABB’s robotics business for $5.375 billion.
The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions.
SoftBank says it wants to combine robotics with AI and next-generation computing.
Allied would bring a different kind of asset: a large service operation with people working at customer sites.
That could give SoftBank insight into where automation helps and where human staff remain essential. It could also create opportunities to test security technology in settings such as data centres.
The potential deal carries significant financial and execution questions. Allied is privately held, and the reported $18 billion figure is an estimate rather than an agreed purchase price.
SoftBank would also need to assess the cost of the acquisition and how quickly robotics could contribute to the business.
For now, investors should view the talks as an early-stage possibility, not a completed transaction or a confirmed plan to replace guards.
The more immediate takeaway is SoftBank’s interest in linking AI and robotics to industries with large physical operations.
Any shift toward robotic security would likely happen gradually, as companies test performance, reliability and cost.
