Google Boston Dynamics robotics sale exposes growing pain

Google transformed itself into Alphabet last year to keep the ambitions of a wild and crazy startup even as the company matured into an increasingly prudent adult. As any millennial can tell you, the shift into adulthood isn’t easy.

The inherent tensions between teenager Google and grown-up Alphabet contributed to the company’s decision to seek a possible buyer for its Boston Dynamics robotics business.

Google bought Boston Dynamics in late 2013 as part of a robotics acquisition spree.