According to several industry estimates, the global humanoid robot market could reach between $30 billion and $60 billion by 2035, with annual growth exceeding 35%. Yet today, less than 1% of industrial companies use humanoids in real production environments. The gap between potential and adoption is telling.

From Technical Demonstration to Industrial Reality

Recent advances in robotics, driven by artificial intelligence and imitation learning, have made it possible to cross a major threshold. In 2025, several prototypes capable of performing picking or assembly tasks were unveiled. In 2026, some manufacturers are announcing tests involving fleets of 10 to 100 robots in controlled environments.

But those figures remain marginal. For comparison, a single automotive plant can deploy more than 1,000 traditional industrial robots.

The transition toward mass adoption involves challenges of a completely different nature:

• System standardization
• Large-scale maintenance
• Software interoperability
• Total cost of ownership (TCO)

Today, the cost of a humanoid robot still ranges between $50,000 and $150,000, which significantly limits large-scale deployment.

The real challenge is no longer
making a robot walk, but making
it work at scale.

We are no longer selling machines,
but ecosystems where hardware is
only the visible part of the data layer.

A Redefinition of the Robotics Model

The traditional robotics framework is evolving toward a systemic approach. In 2026, the most advanced players are no longer selling robots alone, but complete solutions integrating:

• Hardware
• Software
• Infrastructure
• Services
• Data

There is a clear convergence with SaaS models, where value shifts toward operations and data management.

Humanoid robotics is entering a new phase. After the era of technological innovation (2015–2025), the decade 2025–2035 will be defined by large-scale deployment.

The bottleneck has shifted toward infrastructure, regulation, and market integration. The companies that will dominate this market will not simply be those designing the most advanced robots, but those capable of deploying them at scale in real-world environments.

The next revolution will not be technological. It will be operational.

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A technical comparison at the heart of processors and protocols.

Rockwell Automation: The Strength of “Logix” and EtherNet/IP

The Milwaukee giant is built on one philosophy: The Connected Enterprise. Rockwell’s architecture is centered on the Logix controller family (ControlLogix and CompactLogix) and the Studio 5000 development environment.

Technical DNA:

Core protocol: Everything is built around EtherNet/IP. Unlike others that rely on proprietary layers, Rockwell uses CIP (Common Industrial Protocol) over standard Ethernet. This makes integration with enterprise IT layers easier, with Cisco as a long-time partner.

Programming philosophy: The approach is tag-based. Engineers do not manipulate raw memory addresses, but named variables directly at the firmware level.

Strengths: Exceptional native integration between drives (PowerFlex), HMIs (FactoryTalk), and PLCs. It is the “Apple” of industry: a closed ecosystem, but one that runs with remarkable smoothness.

Robot Magazine verdict: Ideal for large-scale process projects and heavy industry, where maintenance must be simplified as much as possible.

Automation is no longer a
hardware choice, it is a
20-year strategy.

Schneider Electric: EcoStruxure and Universal Openness

Schneider Electric has undergone a spectacular transformation, moving from a hardware manufacturer to a leader in industrial software. Its EcoStruxure architecture positions itself as the most open on the market, relying heavily on international standards.

Technical DNA:

Software convergence: With the acquisition of AVEVA, Schneider offers full digital continuity, from sensor to cloud. The PLC (M580 or M262) is no longer more than a node in a broader information network.

IEC 61499 innovation: Schneider is at the forefront of the IEC 61499 standard through EcoStruxure Automation Expert. Unlike the classic IEC 61131 standard, which is cyclical, IEC 61499 is event-driven and allows intelligence to be distributed: a block of code can run equally well in a speed drive or in the central PLC.

Strengths: Unmatched energy management. It is the architecture of choice for smart factories seeking to correlate power consumption with productivity.

Robot Magazine verdict: The most mature solution for those who want to break down silos between pure automation and data management (Big Data/AI).

Beckhoff: The PC-Based Revolution and the Power of EtherCAT

While Rockwell and Schneider are evolving the traditional PLC, German company Beckhoff has essentially eliminated it and replaced it with an industrial PC (IPC).

Technical DNA:

TwinCAT: The core of the system. It is a software platform that transforms a Windows kernel into a hard real-time operating system. It uses the computing power of Intel and AMD processors to drive ultra-complex machines.

Master of EtherCAT: Beckhoff invented EtherCAT, the fastest fieldbus in the world. Unlike EtherNet/IP, which sends individual packets, EtherCAT reads and writes data on the fly within a single frame that passes through all modules. The result: cycle times below 100 microseconds.

IT/OT integration: Beckhoff pioneered the use of C++ and C# directly in industrial control, alongside traditional Ladder Logic and Structured Text.

Robot Magazine verdict: The ultimate weapon for precision robotics, high-speed packaging, and special-purpose machines requiring intensive mathematical computation.

Topology Comparison: A Clash of Cultures

In Industry 4.0, software is
the new master of the
forge.

In-Depth Analysis: The Performance Duel

Motion control

In robotics, Beckhoff remains one step ahead thanks to EtherCAT. The synchronization of hundreds of axes happens with no perceptible latency. However, Rockwell has responded with its intelligent transport technologies, such as iTRAK, offering simplified mechanical and electronic integration for next-generation conveyor systems. Schneider, for its part, stands out with its Lexium range and its ability to integrate Delta or articulated robots through rich software libraries.

Cybersecurity: a critical challenge

Rockwell and Schneider have both adopted IEC 62443-4-2 certification, integrating security chips such as Secure Boot directly into their CPUs. Schneider emphasizes traffic transparency through integrated firewalls, while Rockwell focuses on granular access-right management via FactoryTalk Security. Beckhoff, by using Windows as its foundation, benefits from global security updates but requires deeper IT expertise to secure the operating system properly.

Which architecture for which future?

The choice between these three giants depends on your industrial legacy and your technological ambitions:

Choose Rockwell if you operate in North America or if you need a standardized architecture that is easy to troubleshoot by technicians familiar with clear and powerful logic systems.

Choose Schneider Electric if your priority is energy transition, software openness, and the desire to deploy a decentralized and agile architecture based on IEC 61499.

Choose Beckhoff if you are pushing the limits of physics: extreme cycle rates, complex machine vision integration, or the need to merge high-level software code with industrial automation.

In the era of software-defined manufacturing, the boundary between these players is becoming thinner, but their architectural philosophies remain essential compasses for the engineers of tomorrow.

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These three manufacturers all have recognized expertise, but their approaches differ significantly. Robot architecture, industrial positioning, sector specialization, precision, speed, and operating environment: each player addresses specific needs.

So, how do you choose between ABB, Epson, and Stäubli depending on your production requirements? Robot Magazine offers a detailed analysis to help guide industrial decision-making.

Three leaders, three industrial philosophies

Before getting into the technical comparison, it is essential to understand the positioning of each manufacturer.

ABB: versatility and industrial power

Choosing an industrial robot
means making a strategic decision,
not just a technical one.

Epson: precision and speed for electronics and assembly

Epson has long been recognized for its SCARA robots and micro-assembly solutions, positioning itself as a key player in high-precision industrial automation. The company specializes in applications where very high precision, extremely fast cycle times, and maximum compactness are critical to performance.

This expertise translates into a strong presence across sectors such as electronics, component manufacturing, small-part assembly, and high-speed automated production lines, where efficiency, repeatability, and space optimization are essential.

Stäubli: high precision and critical environments

Stäubli takes a more niche yet highly demanding position within the robotics landscape. Its robots are renowned for their exceptional precision, long-term reliability, and ability to operate in sensitive environments where strict standards are required.

This level of performance makes them particularly well-suited for industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical applications, food processing, as well as clean or sterile environments and micromechanics, where accuracy, cleanliness, and consistency are critical.

Technical comparison: performance, precision, flexibility

1. Precision and repeatability

• Stäubli clearly stands out in this area. Its robots provide extremely fine repeatability, making them well suited for critical environments and high-precision applications.
• Epson also excels, especially with SCARA robots, where precision is essential for fast, repetitive operations.
• ABB offers high precision as well, but it is more focused on versatile industrial applications than on extreme micro-precision.

Verdict: Stäubli > Epson > ABB for very high-precision applications.

2. Execution speed

• Epson leads in short cycle times and high-speed production. Its SCARA robots are designed for rapid tasks with highly optimized cycle times.
• ABB delivers strong performance, but with a balance between speed and robustness.
• Stäubli prioritizes precision and stability over pure speed.

Verdict: Epson > ABB > Stäubli for very high-speed production lines.

3. Payload and power

• ABB offers a very broad range, including robots capable of handling heavy loads in demanding industrial environments.
• Stäubli covers intermediate payloads with high precision.
• Epson mainly focuses on light payloads.

Verdict: ABB > Stäubli > Epson for heavy-duty applications.

4. Operating environment

• Stäubli is the leader for clean, sterile, or sensitive environments such as cleanrooms, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.
• ABB is designed for standard to complex industrial environments.
• Epson is suitable for clean environments, but not as demanding as those typically targeted by Stäubli.

Verdict: Stäubli > Epson > ABB for critical environments.

5. Flexibility and integration

• ABB stands out for its ability to integrate complex systems, particularly through advanced software, simulation solutions, and connected architectures.
• Stäubli offers excellent integration within specialized systems.
• Epson focuses on simple, fast-to-deploy solutions, but these are less scalable in complex architectures.

Verdict: ABB > Stäubli > Epson for complex industrial systems.

Robotics is evolving toward
smarter, more adaptive
systems.

Choosing according to your type of production

Heavy production and full-scale industrial automation

If your production involves:

• Heavy handling
• Welding
• Palletizing
• Complex industrial lines

ABB is the natural choice.

Its versatility, robustness, and software ecosystem make it well suited for large-scale installations.

Fast assembly and electronics production

If you work in:

• Electronics
• Component assembly
• Very high-speed production lines

Epson is particularly suitable.

Its SCARA robots provide the speed and precision needed for short-cycle operations.

Critical production and sensitive environments

If your activity concerns:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Medical industries
• Food processing
• Clean environments

Stäubli is often the obvious choice.

Its precision and compliance with strict standards make it a benchmark player.

Cost, maintenance, and ROI

• The choice does not depend on technical performance alone. Total cost of ownership (TCO) is a key factor.
• ABB often involves a higher initial investment, but offers strong durability and scalability.
• Epson provides more accessible solutions, with fast ROI on high-speed lines.
• Stäubli positions itself in markets where quality matters more than cost, with return on investment driven by reliability and compliance.

2026 trends: toward a convergence of technologies

The differences between these players remain clear, but certain trends are bringing their approaches closer together:

• Growing integration of AI to improve flexibility
• Development of collaborative solutions
• Advancements in machine vision
• Use of digital twins for simulation
• Convergence between industrial robotics and intelligent robotics

Robots are becoming less rigid, more adaptive, and better able to handle increasing variability.

A strategic choice, not just a technical one

Choosing between ABB, Epson, and Stäubli is not about selecting “the best robot,” but identifying the one that best matches your industrial reality.

• ABB for power, versatility, and complex environments
• Epson for speed, precision, and fast assembly
• Stäubli for extreme reliability and critical environments

At a time when automation is becoming a strategic lever, the robot is no longer just a tool, but a central element of the production system.

The right choice is the one that fits into your value chain, your environment, and your long-term industrial vision.

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At a time when optimizing production lines is becoming a strategic priority for manufacturers, Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH has unveiled, through a recent press release, a range of palletizing solutions designed to meet increasingly diverse industrial needs. From small production runs to complex manufacturing environments, the German industrial group highlights a practical and scalable approach to automation.

A legacy of innovation

At Liebherr, automation is not just a product, but the result of a deeply rooted engineering culture. The legacy of Hans Liebherr, founder of the group, is reflected in the company’s ability to design in-house solutions where the market falls short. It was precisely this philosophy that led to the development of the PHS Pro pallet handling system in 2008.

At the time, faced with a lack of suitable solutions for its own industrial needs, the company chose to develop its own system. The result was a complete automation solution capable of adapting to complex industrial environments while remaining scalable.

Automation is becoming a
strategic lever for optimizing
production lines.

From custom-made to modular

Building on its success, the PHS Pro evolved into the PHS Allround, a modular version designed to make automation more accessible. This system is particularly suited to companies with limited space or those wishing to invest progressively.

The PHS Allround stands out through its standardized modular design, allowing step-by-step expansion. Available in several configurations, it offers options such as front machine access, double-fork systems, and extended travel distances for loading.

This modularity is a major advantage for industrial SMEs, which can integrate automation solutions without compromising their ability to adapt in the future.

Significant performance gains

Beyond flexibility, Liebherr’s palletizing solutions deliver notable performance gains. According to the press release, cost per part can be reduced by up to 40%, while machine utilization rates can reach 90%. One of the most striking benefits is the ability to operate without personnel, particularly in automated production environments.

These systems are especially well suited to one-off production and small batch manufacturing, a segment that is growing rapidly in industry, particularly with the rise of product customization.

Real-World use cases

Several examples illustrate the diversity of possible applications.

In the field of metrology, a company in southern Germany uses a PHS Allround to automate a measuring machine. A specific software adaptation was developed to integrate the machine into the system, demonstrating Liebherr’s ability to meet unconventional needs.

Another emblematic case is the installation of a PHS Pro in 2021 at a manufacturer of mechanical components. This system integrates three robotic cells equipped with machine vision, capable of recognizing up to 20 part variants. The entire process from sorting raw parts to machining, cleaning, and discharge is fully automated.

Finally, at Renault’s Cléon site, Liebherr deployed a solution combining a rotary loading system (RLS) and bin-picking technology. This setup optimizes the production flow of crankshafts while integrating intelligent management of incoming parts at the start of the line.

Palletizing solutions can be
adapted to a wide range of
industrial sectors.

Automation serving multiple industries

Liebherr’s palletizing solutions are now used across many sectors: construction, agriculture, aerospace, machine tool manufacturing, and mold production.

This cross-sector relevance confirms a broader trend: automation is no longer reserved for large standardized production lines, but is now expanding into varied environments, often characterized by lower volumes and greater complexity.

Toward accessible and intelligent automation

Beyond technical performance, Liebherr’s positioning is based on comprehensive support for manufacturers. Choosing the right system, integrating it into existing operations, and ensuring proper follow-up all appear to be key success factors.

As product manager Agnès Schauppel points out in the press release, the added value lies in the ability to combine experience, expertise, and creativity. This approach aims to make automation more accessible while meeting growing demands for flexibility and competitiveness.

A strategic challenge for european industry

In a context of accelerated industrial transformation, marked by cost pressure, labor shortages, and the need to increase productivity, automated palletizing solutions appear to be a strategic lever.

The modular and scalable approach developed by Liebherr fits perfectly within this dynamic. It allows manufacturers to adopt automation progressively, without overly heavy initial investments, while maintaining room for future development.

At a time when European industry is seeking to strengthen its competitiveness against international players, this type of solution could well play a key role in modernizing production tools.

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The German group, founded in 1847, does not directly produce industrial robots. Yet it lies at the heart of most modern automated systems. In 2025, Siemens generated over €79 billion in revenue, a significant portion of which comes from its industrial automation and digital activities.

Its strategy rests on a strong conviction: the future of industry does not depend solely on machines, but on their ability to be connected, controlled, and optimized in real time.

Siemens: The Brain of Industrial Robotics

If robots are the “arms” of the factory, Siemens is the central nervous system.

The group has established itself as a global leader in automation systems through several key technologies:

• Industrial programmable logic controllers (PLCs), notably the SIMATIC range
• Engineering software such as TIA Portal
• Industrial supervisory systems (SCADA)
• Control and motion control solutions

Market estimates indicate Siemens holds between 20% and 30% of the global industrial PLC market, making it one of the leaders alongside Rockwell Automation and Schneider Electric.

Siemens doesn’t sell robots;
it provides the factory’s
nervous system.

These technologies make it possible to coordinate entire production lines, integrating robots, sensors, machine tools, and logistics systems.

A Strategy Focused on Integration and Software

Unlike robot manufacturers, Siemens takes a systemic approach.

The group does not position itself as a machine builder but as a provider of technology platforms capable of integrating:

• Robotics
• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
• Data systems
• Artificial intelligence

This approach transforms isolated equipment into intelligent industrial ecosystems.

The global Industry 4.0 market, estimated at over $150 billion in 2025, is expected to exceed $300 billion by 2030, with an average annual growth rate above 10%. Siemens is today one of the main beneficiaries of this transition.

The Digital Twin: A Major Transformation Lever

A cornerstone of Siemens’ strategy is the development of the digital twin.

This concept creates a virtual replica of a factory, production line, or product to:

• Simulate industrial processes
• Test robot integration
• Optimize production flows
• Anticipate failures

According to Siemens, using a digital twin can reduce production start-up costs by up to 30% and cut development times by 20–50%.

Solutions such as Siemens NX, Teamcenter, or Tecnomatix are now used by major industrial players in automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors.

A Dominant Presence in Industry 4.0

Siemens stands out for its ability to cover the entire industrial value chain:

• Product design (PLM)
• Simulation and engineering
• Production automation
• Data supervision and analysis
• Predictive maintenance

This vertical integration helps industrial companies reduce complexity and improve overall performance.

Siemens’ Digital Industries segment alone generates tens of billions of euros in revenue and posts some of the highest margins within the group.

Siemens’ Key Role in Modern Robotics

Even without producing robots, Siemens is indispensable to their operation.

Its solutions enable:

• Communication between robots and industrial systems
• Optimization of trajectories and production cycles
• Integration of robots into complex environments
• Centralization of data for real-time decision-making

In many factories, robots from different manufacturers operate on architectures controlled by Siemens technologies.

Artificial intelligence enables
more autonomous and responsive
factories.

This positions Siemens as a major player in the global robotics ecosystem.

Towards Autonomous, AI-Driven Factories

Siemens’ vision aligns with a trend toward increasingly autonomous factories.

AI integration already allows for:

• Predictive maintenance, reducing unplanned downtime by up to 50%
• Real-time process optimization
• Automation of operational decision-making

Several studies suggest that AI adoption in industry could generate more than $3 trillion in global economic value by 2030.

In this context, Siemens is heavily investing in industrial software and cloud platforms, notably through Siemens Xcelerator.

A Strategic Partner for Industrial Companies

For industrial companies, Siemens is not just a technology provider but a strategic partner.

Its solutions help:

• Accelerate digital transformation
• Reduce operational costs
• Improve quality and traceability
• Strengthen competitiveness

In an environment marked by cost pressures, energy transition, and industrial reshoring, these levers are essential.

While robotics often grabs attention, it is only part of the ongoing industrial transformation.

Players like Siemens play a fundamental role by providing the software and technological infrastructure that allows robots to operate efficiently and in coordination.

In the coming years, industrial competitiveness will depend on the ability to integrate these intelligent systems.

The question will no longer be just about choosing the right equipment, but about building an industrial architecture capable of adapting, learning, and evolving continuously.

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More mobile and adaptable Robots for production needs

In a context where industrial cycles are shortening and production variability is increasing, FANUC is highlighting a new generation of robots designed to quickly adapt to production environments.

Among the new releases, the collaborative robot CRX-3iA stands out for its lightweight design (11 kg), making it easy to move across the factory to support various tasks, from quality control to assembly. On the other hand, models such as the CRX-30iA are evolving through software optimizations, enabling, for example, an increase in payload capacity up to 40 kg in palletizing mode.

This modular and scalable approach reflects a strong market trend: equipment capable of continuously adapting to operational constraints without requiring heavy investments for each production line modification.

Teleoperation and Haptic feedback for High-Risk environments

Another notable development is the introduction of teleoperation features on certain robotic arms. Which can now be remotely controlled via a master-slave system. Operators can guide a robot from a distance using a “leader” mini-robot while benefiting from haptic feedback.

This technology is primarily aimed at high-risk or demanding environments (heavy handling, hazardous conditions, musculoskeletal disorders), allowing the precision of human gestures to be maintained while reducing operators’ physical exposure.

Advanced simulation and convergence with Physical AI

Industrial simulation is also reaching a new milestone with the integration of FANUC robots into the NVIDIA Isaac Sim environment. This platform enables the creation of digital twins of factories to test and optimize production processes before real-world deployment.

Integration with the Roboguide software ensures consistency between simulation and execution, enhancing the reliability of virtual testing.

At the same time, FANUC is introducing several features to facilitate the integration of AI into robotic systems:

• Compatibility with ROS2 for equipment interoperability

• Real-time trajectory adaptation through streaming motion

• Python programming directly from the controller

These developments are part of the rise of “physical AI,” which aims to equip robots with the ability to interact with unstructured environments. Opening the door to new industrial applications.

A CNC designed for connected environments

In the field of machining, the new FS500i-A CNC highlights the convergence between industrial performance and connectivity. Designed to meet the requirements of complex parts generated through AI-assisted design. It integrates advanced computing capabilities along with extended connectivity.

The integration of multiple communication protocols and enhanced cybersecurity standards enables better coordination between machines, robots, and digital systems. Particularly in a changing European regulatory environment.

Toward more versatile Industrial Machines

Finally, FANUC continues to develop industrial machines capable of covering a wide range of applications. The goal: to provide greater flexibility for manufacturers while optimizing the use of space and resources.

The Roboshot S180 C injection molding machine illustrates this approach. With the ability to accommodate larger molds without increasing its footprint, while simplifying plug-and-play robot integration.

A key event for a Transforming Industry

With these innovations, FANUC highlights several structuring trends in the industry: flexible production tools, process digitalization, and the convergence of robotics and artificial intelligence.

Global Industrie 2026 is shaping up to be a strategic meeting point for industry players looking to anticipate sector transformations and discover the technologies that will shape the factory of tomorrow.

Global Industrie 2026
March 30 – April 2, 2026
Paris-Nord Villepinte
FANUC – Hall 5, Stand F161

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According to the International Federation of Robotics, more than 4.2 million industrial robots are currently in operation in factories worldwide, and over 540,000 new robots are installed each year. This rapid growth in robotization requires technological infrastructures capable of connecting machines, robots, and IT systems.

It is precisely in this environment that the EcoStruxure platform, developed by Schneider Electric, plays a key role. Designed to support the digital transformation of industry, EcoStruxure enables the connection of industrial equipment, the collection of production data, and the optimization of factory performance.

In a world where industrial competitiveness increasingly depends on the ability to leverage data and automation, this platform is becoming a central element of smart factories.

The rise of smart factories

Smart factories represent one of the major evolutions of modern industry. Unlike traditional production lines, these infrastructures rely on interconnected systems capable of communicating with each other and making data-driven decisions.

In a smart factory, robots, sensors, machines, and IT systems are connected to a digital platform that enables real-time monitoring of all industrial operations.

This approach offers several advantages:

• Improved productivity

• Reduced operational costs

• Predictive maintenance of equipment

• Optimized energy consumption

• Better production quality

According to several studies by McKinsey, the use of digital technologies in industry can improve factory productivity by 20 to 30% while reducing maintenance costs by up to 40%.

To achieve these objectives, companies must rely on platforms capable of connecting and orchestrating all their industrial equipment.

The global industry is entering
a new era driven by data and
automation.

EcoStruxure: an open architecture for industry

EcoStruxure is the industrial platform developed by Schneider Electric to address the challenges of Industry 4.0. It is based on an open architecture that enables the connection of different types of equipment and software.

This platform is built on three technological layers.

Connected products

The first level concerns the physical equipment present in the factory, including:

• Industrial sensors

• Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)

• Variable speed drives

• Motor control systems

• Energy management devices

These devices are capable of collecting data on machine operations, energy consumption, and production performance.

System control

The second level involves automation systems that control machines and coordinate industrial operations.

Automation software enables:

• Control of industrial robots

• Synchronization of production lines

• Automation of complex tasks

• Real-time supervision of operations

This technological layer forms the operational core of the smart factory.

Applications and analytics

The third level is dedicated to data utilization. The information collected by machines is analyzed to improve industrial performance.

EcoStruxure applications enable:

• Industrial data analysis

• Predictive maintenance

• Energy optimization

• Industrial performance management

This ability to transform data into actionable insights is one of the key strengths of modern industrial platforms.

Integration of industrial robotics

In modern factories, industrial robots play a central role in production processes. They perform repetitive tasks with high precision and speed.

Robots are now used in many industrial applications:

• Assembly

• Welding

• Material handling

• Pick and place

• Quality control

• Packaging

However, these robots must be integrated into a global system to ensure effective coordination with the rest of the production line.

EcoStruxure enables industrial robots to be connected to automation systems and supervisory platforms. This integration offers several advantages:

• Better visibility into robot performance

• Reduced downtime

• Optimization of production flows

• Predictive maintenance of equipment

Thanks to this approach, manufacturers can fully leverage the potential of robotics while improving the reliability of their installations.

Smart energy management

One of the major challenges of modern industry is energy consumption. Robotized and automated factories often consume large amounts of energy, which can significantly impact operating costs.

Schneider Electric, historically specialized in energy management, has integrated this dimension at the core of the EcoStruxure platform.

The proposed solutions enable:

• Measurement of machine energy consumption

• Identification of waste sources

• Optimization of equipment energy efficiency

• Reduction of factory carbon footprint

In a context where companies aim to meet sustainability goals, this ability to optimize energy management becomes a strategic advantage.

Industrial platforms are
becoming strategic
infrastructures.

Global adoption across multiple sectors

EcoStruxure solutions are now used across many industrial sectors, including:

• Automotive

• Electronics

• Food processing

• Logistics

• Pharmaceutical industry

• Energy production

In these environments, companies must manage complex infrastructures involving hundreds of machines and robots. Digital platforms make it possible to centralize information and improve decision-making.

This digital transformation is part of a broader movement toward the digitization of production chains.

The future of industry: robotics, AI, and data

The industry of the future will rely on the integration of several complementary technologies.

Among the most important trends:

• Advanced robotics

• Collaborative robots (cobots)

• Industrial artificial intelligence

• Digital twins

• Real-time data analytics

According to analysts at ABI Research, the global robotics market could exceed $110 billion by 2030.

Industrial platforms like EcoStruxure will play a central role in this transformation, as they enable these technologies to be connected within a coherent infrastructure.

In the long term, factories could become increasingly autonomous, capable of optimizing their production and automatically adapting to changes in demand.

Industrial robotization can no longer be considered without a digital infrastructure capable of connecting machines, robots, and information systems.

With EcoStruxure, Schneider Electric offers a platform that enables companies to build smart, connected, and more sustainable factories.

By combining industrial automation, energy management, and data analytics, this solution helps lay the foundations for the industry of the future.

As digital transformation continues to redefine production chains on a global scale, platforms capable of orchestrating these technologies will play a decisive role in the competitiveness of industrial companies.

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According to the latest statistics from the International Federation of Robotics, more than 542,000 industrial robots were installed in factories in 2025, a historic level that confirms the rapid expansion of industrial automation.

In total, more than 4.28 million industrial robots are currently operating in factories worldwide, representing an increase of about 10% in just one year.

But behind these robots lies a complex technological infrastructure: automation systems, energy management, data analytics, and machine supervision. It is precisely in this ecosystem that Schneider Electric has positioned itself as a key player in the era of Industry 4.0.

A Rapidly Expanding Industrial Robotization

Industrial robotics is one of the most dynamic technology sectors today.

The global robotics market is expected to reach over $110 billion by 2030, more than doubling its current size.

Within industrial robotics alone, revenues are projected to exceed $30 billion by 2030, with annual growth approaching 9%.

This growth is driven by several factors:

• Industrial labor shortages

• Rising labor costs

• Demand for flexible production

• Digital transformation of factories

• Rapid expansion of e-commerce and logistics

Today, robots are used in many industrial tasks:

• Assembly

• Pick and place

• Welding

• Quality inspection

• Packaging

• Automated material handling

However, robots alone are no longer enough. Manufacturers are now looking for connected factories capable of analyzing and optimizing production in real time.

Automation improves productivity
while enhancing industrial quality.

The Key Role of Digital Infrastructure in Robotized Factories

Modern factories rely on a digital architecture capable of connecting:

• Industrial robots

• Smart sensors

• Production machines

• Control systems

• Data analytics platforms

This interconnection makes it possible to create smart factories, where every machine can communicate with the rest of the industrial system.

The benefits are numerous:

• Performance optimization

• Predictive maintenance

• Reduced energy costs

• Improved quality

• Rapid production adaptation

This technological layer is exactly where Schneider Electric develops its solutions.

EcoStruxure: The Platform at the Core of Smart Factories

To address Industry 4.0 challenges, Schneider Electric developed EcoStruxure, a digital platform designed to connect industrial equipment.

EcoStruxure enables:

• Monitoring of production lines

• Intelligent energy management

• Industrial performance analytics

• Predictive maintenance

• Integration of robots into industrial processes

With this architecture, companies can leverage data generated by their machines to improve overall factory performance.

This approach also helps reduce energy consumption, a major challenge for modern industry.

Beyond industrial automation, technologies developed by Schneider Electric are present in several strategic high-growth markets. The group is now strongly involved in data centers, smart buildings, energy infrastructure, and automated factories.

These sectors are driven by major global trends: the rise of artificial intelligence, the energy transition, and infrastructure digitalization.

For example:

• The global data center market could exceed $1 trillion in cumulative investment by the end of the decade.

• The modernization of power grids and connected factories is creating increasing demand for platforms such as EcoStruxure, capable of connecting equipment, data, and energy within a single industrial ecosystem.

Schneider Electric Technologies Used in Robotized Factories

The solutions provided by Schneider Electric cover the entire industrial ecosystem.

Industrial PLCs

Programmable logic controllers enable robots to be controlled and coordinate the various machines on a production line.

Motion Control

Motion control technologies ensure precision and synchronization for industrial robots performing complex operations.

Industrial Supervision Software

Industrial software provides a complete overview of robot and machine performance, allowing operators to quickly detect anomalies.

Intelligent Energy Management

In robotized factories, energy consumption can be significant. Schneider Electric’s solutions help optimize energy usage and reduce operational costs.

Schneider Electric helps build
the technological foundations
of Industry 4.0.

Industrial Robotics Driven by Asia

Today, industrial automation is largely dominated by Asia.

In 2024:

• 74% of industrial robots installed worldwide were deployed in Asia

• Europe accounted for about 16% of installations

• The Americas represented around 9%

China has become the world’s largest industrial robotics market, accounting for more than half of global installations.

This dynamic is pushing European manufacturers to accelerate their digital transformation to remain competitive.

Toward the Factory of the Future: Robotics, AI, and Data

The next generation of factories will rely on the integration of multiple technologies:

• Industrial robots

• Collaborative robots (cobots)

• Artificial intelligence

• Industrial data analytics

• Digital twins

• Energy automation

The collaborative robot market, for example, could reach $12 billion by 2030, growing at a very rapid pace.

In this environment, technological infrastructures capable of connecting robots to industrial systems become essential.

This is precisely the role played by Schneider Electric.

Key Figures: Schneider Electric in Numbers

• Around €40 billion in revenue in 2025

• Presence in more than 100 countries

• Over 150,000 employees worldwide

• More than €4 billion invested annually in R&D

• More than 4.2 million industrial robots currently operating in factories worldwide

• The global industrial robotics market could exceed $110 billion by 2030

• Buildings represent around 40% of global energy consumption, a key sector for Schneider Electric solutions

• Global investment in data centers could approach $1 trillion by 2028, driven by AI and cloud computing

Industrial robotization is no longer limited to robots themselves. It now relies on a complete architecture combining automation, energy, and data.

With its industrial automation solutions and its EcoStruxure platform, Schneider Electric is helping to build the technological foundations required for the smart factories of tomorrow.

As robotics continues to transform global industry, the technologies that connect, control, and optimize robots will lie at the heart of the next industrial revolution.

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This is precisely the objective of the Lenovo AI Workmate Concept, an exploratory vision developed by Lenovo to imagine the future of the workplace. Instead of multiplying complex interfaces, Lenovo proposes an environment in which gestures, voice, and natural interactions become computer commands.

In this model, the user no longer simply uses a computer: they collaborate with an artificial intelligence integrated into their workspace.

Toward a More Natural Interaction Between Humans and Machines

For several decades, computing has relied on a relatively stable set of interfaces: keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, or voice commands. While these tools enabled the explosion of digital productivity, they still introduce a barrier between human intention and digital action.

The Lenovo AI Workmate concept specifically aims to reduce this friction.

The idea is simple: physical user actions become digital actions.

For example:

• Moving a physical document could automatically generate a digital version or summary

• Pointing at a chart could trigger an automatic data analysis

• Making a gesture toward an application could launch a simulation or calculation

• Giving a voice instruction could instantly create an automated workflow

This type of interaction is part of the growing trend of natural interfaces, a research field focused on making technology as intuitive as human interaction.

Artificial intelligence is gradually
transforming the way humans interact
with technology.

Artificial Intelligence at the Core of the System

To function, the Lenovo AI Workmate relies on several key technologies.

Computer Vision

Cameras and sensors analyze movements, gestures, and objects present in the workspace. AI can therefore understand the context in which the user operates.

Contextual Intelligence

AI does not simply recognize gestures; it also interprets the intention behind them. If a user manipulates a data table, the system could automatically suggest relevant analyses or visualizations.

Multimodal Interaction

Users can interact with the system in multiple ways:

• Gestures

• Voice

• Physical objects

• Visual interactions

This multimodal approach is currently one of the major development directions in artificial intelligence.

Task Automation

AI Workmate also functions as a digital assistant capable of automatically performing certain tasks :

• Writing documents

• Searching for information

• Preparing presentations

• Generating reports

The Emergence

The Lenovo project reflects a broader trend: the emergence of AI coworkers digital colleagues designed to support human work.

Unlike traditional assistants, these systems do more than answer questions. They can:

• Analyze data

• Take initiatives

• Prepare documents

• Coordinate certain project tasks

In other words, AI becomes an active participant in the workplace.

In some technology companies, these agents already manage tasks such as:

• Code generation

• Financial analysis

• Report preparation

• Customer support management

Lenovo pushes this concept further by integrating AI directly into the worker’s physical environment.

A Bridge Between Artificial Intelligence and “Physical AI”

The Lenovo AI Workmate also fits into an emerging trend known as Physical AI.

Until recently, most AI systems operated exclusively in digital environments. However, recent advances in sensors, computer vision, and robotics now allow AI to interact with the physical world.

In this context, several technologies are converging:

• Generative artificial intelligence

• Computer vision

• Robotics

• Spatial computing

The workplace then becomes a hybrid environment, where digital and physical elements merge.

This approach could also serve as the foundation for future interactions with collaborative or humanoid robots capable of understanding human intentions in a shared workspace.

Practical Applications Across Multiple Sectors

Although the Lenovo AI Workmate is still a concept, its potential applications are numerous.

Engineering and Industrial Design

Engineers could manipulate 3D models with gestures while AI automatically adjusts certain parameters or runs simulations.

Data Analysis

Analysts could interact with dashboards much more fluidly: pointing to areas of a chart, zooming into data, or requesting comparisons via voice.

Industrial Production

In manufacturing environments, operators could check machine data or trigger certain actions without leaving their physical workstation.

Collaborative Work

In distributed teams, the AI Workmate could act as an intelligent interface between participants, summarizing discussions or automatically generating shared documents.

The future of work relies on the
convergence of artificial intelligence,
computer vision, and spatial computing.

A Trend That Goes Beyond Lenovo

Lenovo is not the only company exploring this future of work.

Several technological trends are converging toward this type of intelligent environment:

• AI copilots developed by Microsoft and Google

• Spatial computing popularized by Apple and Meta Platforms

• Gesture-based interfaces

• Autonomous AI agents

What makes the Workmate concept different is the integration of all these technologies into a single intelligent workspace.

The End of the Keyboard and Mouse?

The Lenovo AI Workmate ultimately raises a fundamental question: are traditional interfaces destined to disappear?

Keyboards and mice will likely remain essential for certain precise tasks. However, for many professional activities, natural interfaces could become far more efficient.

In industrial environments, laboratories, or research centers, the ability to interact directly with digital systems could transform how humans work with technology.

A Glimpse of Tomorrow’s Office

With AI Workmate, Lenovo is not just presenting a new product. The company is proposing a vision of the future of work.

In this future, every professional could have an intelligent assistant capable of understanding their actions, anticipating their needs, and automatically executing certain tasks.

Such an environment could deeply transform productivity, collaboration, and the relationship between humans and machines.

If these technologies continue to progress at the current pace, the office of tomorrow may no longer be just a computer sitting on a desk.

It could become an intelligent, interactive, and collaborative workspace, where artificial intelligence acts as a true professional partner.

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As humanoid robotics attracts increasing attention worldwide, a growing number of startups are exploring new real-world applications for these machines. While many companies aim to build general-purpose humanoids capable of performing multiple tasks, TeknTrash Robotics is taking a different approach.

The company focuses on a very specific mission: automating waste handling through humanoid robots.

Robot Magazine spoke with Al Costa, entrepreneur and robotics advocate, about the company’s vision, the evolution of humanoid systems, and why specialization could be the key to making robots truly useful in everyday environments.

Introducing TeknTrash

Robot Magazine: To start, could you briefly explain what TeknTrash does, the problem your company addresses, and the vision that drives your work in robotics and automation?

Al Costa:
TeknTrash was created based on a simple observation: waste handling  both in industrial environments and in homes  is dangerous, unsanitary and unhealthy. It is a task that ideally humans should not have to perform.

To solve this problem, we developed ALPHA, the Automated Litter Processing Humanoid Assistant. ALPHA is a humanoid robot specifically designed to handle waste in many environments.

Our vision differs from many robotics companies currently developing humanoids. The idea of creating general-purpose humanoids capable of performing any task is, in my opinion, unrealistic.

When a company hires someone, it does not expect that person to code software, manage finances, serve coffee and answer customer calls simultaneously. Each job requires a different set of skills.

Biology teaches us the same lesson: specialization matters. Muscles designed for strength cannot perform precision tasks efficiently, and precision muscles cannot deliver high force.

For that reason, TeknTrash focuses entirely on waste handling. This specialization is the foundation of our strategy.

“Robotics should follow the same logic as human work: specialization creates efficiency.”
Al Costa, CEO of TeknTrash Robotics

Humanoid robotics and real-world applications

Robot Magazine: Humanoid robots are attracting strong attention across the robotics industry. How do you see these systems evolving from experimental platforms into real-world solutions?

Al Costa:
My background combines biology and computer engineering, which allows me to approach robotics from both scientific and technological perspectives.

Two years ago, I suggested to an investor that robots could be used during concerts as part of the entertainment experience. At the time, he dismissed the idea, arguing that robots would “sell themselves”.

But recently we saw a major pop concert in China where four humanoid robots danced alongside the singer. The audience loved it.

This example illustrates a broader point: China is currently far ahead in experimenting with real-world uses of robotics. If Western companies want to remain competitive, we need to closely observe what is happening there.

At TeknTrash we opened an office in Suzhou, and I may personally relocate to China in the future.

“China is moving extremely fast in robotics
adoption. Watching what happens there is essential.”
Al Costa

Systems thinking in robotics

Robot Magazine: Modern robotics increasingly relies on integrated systems combining AI, sensors and connectivity. How does TeknTrash approach this challenge?

Al Costa:
One of the biggest limitations for robotics today is computing power.

Human brains are made of carbon atoms. Carbon has the same four chemical bonds as silicon which is used in computer chips but carbon atoms are much smaller. This allows biological brains to pack incredible computing capacity into a very small space.

As a result, the human brain still far surpasses any computer we can currently build.

At the same time, semiconductor manufacturing is approaching atomic limits. Chips cannot keep shrinking indefinitely.

Because of this, robotics will increasingly rely on cloud computing.

Many advanced robotic functions will not run directly on the robot itself but on remote servers performing heavy computations.

This means robots must be connected continuously to powerful computing infrastructure.

TeknTrash is part of the One6G Association, exploring future connectivity technologies. Our architecture has also been recognized by Google Cloud as an example of cloud-based robotics.

“The future of robotics will rely heavily
on cloud intelligence rather than onboard
computing.”

Automation, intelligence and the future of work

Robot Magazine: Beyond productivity gains, how will intelligent automation reshape industries and society?

Al Costa:
Recently a well-known billionaire suggested that robots could eliminate the need for human work within five years.

That reminded me of the film WALL-E, where robots perform every task for humans and society becomes completely dependent on machines.

While that scenario may sound extreme, technological progress is clearly accelerating.

The futurist Ray Kurzweil described this phenomenon with the concept of the technological singularity  a point where technological evolution becomes so rapid that predicting the future becomes extremely difficult.

Whether or not we reach that point soon, intelligent automation will undoubtedly transform many industries in the coming decades.

Leadership and the future of robotics

Robot Magazine: What mindset shift is required to accelerate the adoption of humanoid robots?

Al Costa:
Technological pessimism has always existed.

When the telephone was invented, many people believed it was unnecessary because the telegraph already worked perfectly.

Innovation often faces resistance because people cannot imagine how new technologies will change everyday life.

Henry Ford famously said that if he had asked customers what they wanted, they would have answered: “a faster horse”.

Today many societies face labor shortages due to demographic changes. In Japan, for example, more adult diapers are sold than baby diapers.

This shows that robots will increasingly be needed to supplement human labor.

Our responsibility as technologists is to develop tools that improve society, even when people initially struggle to imagine their value.

About Al Costa

Al Costa is CEO of TeknTrash Robotics, a company focused on developing humanoid robots dedicated to waste handling in industrial and residential environments.

A serial entrepreneur, he has founded companies in the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, China and Brazil. His first startup was acquired by a company listed on NASDAQ.

He is also the author of five books, including a science-fiction novel, and previously taught Big Data and Machine Learning at a university in Spain.

Having grown up in several countries as the son of a diplomat, he is also the founder of an NGO dedicated to protecting children in war zones.

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