Roche has agreed to acquire U.S.-based PathAI for up to $1.05 billion, strengthening its artificial intelligence diagnostics capabilities. The Swiss pharmaceutical giant will pay $750 million upfront, with additional payments of up to $300 million tied to performance targets. This acquisition builds on an existing partnership between the companies that began in 2021.

The deal positions Roche to scale PathAI's technology globally across pathology laboratories and the biopharma industry. PathAI's platform aims to streamline diagnostic workflows and accelerate clinical-therapy development, addressing growing demand for AI-powered healthcare solutions. The acquisition reflects pharmaceutical companies' increasing focus on digital health technologies.

Roche plans to integrate PathAI's offerings with its existing diagnostics portfolio to improve laboratory efficiency and support drug target discovery. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals. This move represents Roche's commitment to embedding AI throughout its diagnostic operations rather than partnering externally.