Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are no longer futuristic concepts confined to sci-fi movies.

They are rapidly transforming industries, from healthcare and manufacturing to finance and transportation.

And while the local share market may not have any quality options in the space, that doesn't mean that Aussie investors can't gain exposure to this rapidly growing area of the technology sector. Not when there are ASX ETFs that

For example, investors looking to capitalise on this technological revolution might want to consider the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ).

Why invest in AI and robotics?

AI is increasingly embedded in everyday life. Whether it's powering virtual assistants, revolutionising medical diagnostics, or driving autonomous vehicles, AI is rapidly reshaping the global economy.

The rise of machine learning, automation, and smart robotics means that companies at the forefront of these fields could potentially deliver outsized returns over the long term.

Similarly, robotics is playing an important role in industries such as logistics, precision manufacturing, and even surgery. With ongoing advancements in automation and AI-driven robotics, companies leading this charge stand to benefit from significant long-term growth.

The Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF

The Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF provides investors with exposure to a diversified portfolio of global companies that are driving advancements in AI and robotics.

It aims to track the Indxx Global Robotics & Artificial Intelligence Thematic Index before fees and expenses. This index includes companies involved in industrial robotics and automation, artificial intelligence-driven technologies, unmanned vehicles and drones, non-industrial robotics.

By investing in this ASX ETF, investors gain access to a broad selection of companies leading AI and robotics innovation without needing to pick individual stocks.

Key holdings in this ASX ETF

While Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) is the ETF's largest holding—unsurprising given its dominance in AI-focused semiconductors—the fund also includes a diverse mix of companies across multiple industries.

One standout is Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), which is a leader in robotic-assisted surgery systems. Its Da Vinci surgical platform has revolutionised minimally invasive procedures, which demonstrates the increasing role AI-powered robotics could play in healthcare.

Industrial automation companies like ABB and Keyence Corp are also featured in the fund. These companies are at the forefront of factory automation and smart manufacturing, helping businesses boost efficiency and reduce costs.

Additionally, Dynatrace (NYSE: DT) is a notable holding. It provides AI-powered monitoring solutions that help businesses optimise their digital infrastructure, ensuring applications and systems run smoothly.

Foolish takeaway

The AI and robotics sectors are still in their early stages of growth, meaning that investors today are potentially getting in on the ground floor of a long-term megatrend.

AI is expected to become an even bigger economic driver in the coming decades, and companies leveraging automation will likely gain a competitive edge. It is no wonder then that Betashares recently named this ASX ETF as one to buy for AI exposure.