Samsung Electro-Mechanics has begun mass production of camera modules for humanoid robots and started supplying an unnamed North American customer in the third quarter of 2026. Management disclosed the programme on its 28 October earnings call, describing high-resolution imaging and precision sensing at short distances as capabilities supporting the new application.
The company is also developing modules with improved sensing precision for a subsequent robot model. It said it is working with several robotics companies on integrated sensing designs that combine its lens and actuator technologies, while increasing supply capability for anticipated North American demand.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ camera-module business designs and manufactures lenses, actuators and printed circuit boards in-house. Within a camera, the actuator moves the lens to focus or stabilise the image; lens design and sensor calibration determine how incoming light becomes usable visual data. These optical and manufacturing capabilities already support its smartphone and automotive products.
The Optical Solution unit reported third-quarter revenue of KRW941.3 billion, up 3% year on year and down 9% from the previous quarter. Samsung attributed the annual increase to new smartphone camera programmes and higher automotive supply. For robotics, the next development work centres on improving sensing precision and adapting integrated modules to different operating environments.
