Google, Foxconn partner to accelerate robotics development, report says

Google and Foxconn have quietly become bedfellows, according to a new report.

Google's former Android chief and head of robotics at the search giant Andy Rubin is working closely with Foxconn and its chairman Terry Gou to help each other's operations on robotics, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the plans. Foxconn is providing guidance to Rubin on robotics development, and Google is helping Foxconn more quickly develop manufacturing robotics, according to the report.

Foxconn is one of the world's largest manufacturers, producing technology equipment for Microsoft, Apple, and countless other companies. It's also been the subject of scrutiny over working conditions.

For its part, Google has only recently made a strong push for robotics, acquiring a slew of companies in the last year to aid in that effort. Rubin, who made his name on Android, is heading up the robotics initiative.

For now, it appears that Google is content to improve robotics on manufacturing and other corporate-focused areas. And given the importance of Foxconn in the technology space, it would only make sense that the companies are working together to some degree. According to the Journal's sources, the combined effort is all about quickening the pace of robotics deployment for both companies.

CNET has contacted Google for comment on the report. We will update this story when we have more information.