Motorola to acquire Theatro, enhancing AI for workers

Motorola Solutions has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Theatro, a company known for both its AI-driven communication and digital workflow software tailored for frontline workers.

Theatro, based in Richardson, Texas, provides a software-as-a-service platform designed to enhance productivity and safety for frontline workers. Its wearable device enables workers to interact with an AI voice assistant using conversational language.

This technology supports employees in helping customers, checking inventory and pricing, and maintaining communication with team members.

Frontline workers face increasing safety threats and theft incidents, and Theatro's platform offers features to address these challenges.

Employees can discreetly contact management and security through the wearable device when feeling unsafe, while the AI assistant provides step-by-step protocols for managing incidents. Additionally, Theatro's software integrates with video security systems to identify potential threats and alert staff on the floor proactively.

"Theatro is designed to prioritise both safety and operational efficiency, which are essential for all frontline workers," said Mahesh Saptharishi, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of Motorola Solutions.

"With Theatro, we are continuing to invest in innovative technologies that purposefully apply AI to protect employees while automating how they work and improving their service to customers."

Theatro currently serves several well-known U.S. retailers across various merchant categories. Motorola Solutions and Theatro plan to integrate complementary workflows with Motorola Solutions' existing technologies, such as body cameras, fixed video, panic buttons, and radios. This integration aims to provide additional services to existing customers and support growth in fields like hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, and education.

Chris Todd, President and CEO of Theatro, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "For more than a decade, we have been passionate about innovating for frontline workers."

"We're thrilled to be joining Motorola Solutions to enable even more capabilities that help team members remain safe while delivering their best work every day."

The transaction is anticipated to close in the first half of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.