KUKA simplifies automation with iiQKA.OS2, a system designed for all skill levels

Christophe Carl Louis — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:38:47 +0000

KUKA Makes Automation More Accessible

The German manufacturer KUKA, a pioneer in industrial robotics, announces a major step forward in making automation more accessible. With its new single controller paired with the iiQKA.OS2 operating system, the company offers an integrated approach designed to simplify the commissioning and operation of robots, whether for beginners or experts.

An Integrated Approach to Simplify Robotics

Historically, programming and managing industrial robots required highly specialized technical skills, often specific to each robot type. iiQKA.OS2 aims to simplify this complexity by combining hardware and software in a unified environment. This integration allows operators to configure, program, and monitor robots from a centralized interface, with a reduced learning curve.

With iiQKA.OS2, KUKA makes industrial
robotics more accessible for beginners
and experts alike.

An Intuitive Interface for All Levels

KUKA emphasizes that iiQKA.OS2 is designed to be intuitive. The user interface, based on ergonomic principles, guides users step by step while offering advanced functions for experienced operators. This could shorten training times and improve productivity in a variety of industrial settings, from automotive assembly to precision handling.

Modularity and Industrial Compatibility

The system is also modular and compatible with current industrial standards, making it easier to integrate into existing facilities or hybrid production architectures. According to KUKA, this approach encourages faster adoption of automation, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may hesitate due to the complexity or cost of robotic solutions.

More than a system, iiQKA.OS2 is a
gateway to flexible and reliable
automation.

Making Automation Accessible to SMEs

With iiQKA.OS2, KUKA focuses on accessibility and flexibility while maintaining the performance and reliability that define its robots. While this development may not revolutionize robotics itself. It could help democratize industrial robot usage and reduce the technical barriers that still limit many companies.

KUKA makes automation and robot control easier than ever for both beginners and experts with its single controller and all-in-one operating system.

FAQ – KUKA and iiQKA.OS2: Simplifying and Making Industrial Robots Accessible

1. What is the MOTOMAN NEXT platform?

MOTOMAN NEXT is a new generation of robotic architecture developed by Yaskawa, combining robot, controller, software, AI, and engineering tools into a single ecosystem. Its goal is to make robots more autonomous capable of observing, understanding, and adapting to complex environments.

2. How does MOTOMAN NEXT differ from traditional robot controllers?

Unlike conventional controllers focused solely on execution, MOTOMAN NEXT integrates an intelligent unit (ACU) based on NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX-Edge, enabling advanced functions such as vision processing, image analysis, embedded AI, and intelligent planning directly within the controller.

3. What problems does the platform aim to solve?

Yaskawa seeks to bridge the gap between OT (industrial automation) systems and IT (advanced software applications). The platform simplifies the integration of vision, sensors, and AI while eliminating reliance on external PCs and reducing issues like latency or unstable dynamic behavior.

4. What types of applications become possible thanks to this new architecture?

The combination of AI and onboard perception enables automation of tasks previously performed only by humans: flexible assembly, unstructured sorting, random handling, variable flow management, adaptive logistics, and operations in food processing, construction, healthcare, or recycling.

5. What new robots were announced with MOTOMAN NEXT?

Yaskawa introduced the NEX series, covering payloads from 4 to 35 kg, as well as new NHC-series cobots (12 and 30 kg) equipped with an integrated RGB-D camera. These robots offer improved consistency between digital models and real behavior, making simulation and programming more efficient.

6. How does the platform facilitate engineering and production deployment?

MOTOMAN NEXT includes a digital twin through the YNX Robot Simulator, enabling virtual cell creation, trajectory testing, AI scenario validation, and optimization before deployment. Compatibility with Isaac Sim and Cumotion further enhances advanced simulation capabilities.

7. What key improvements does the platform offer to users and operators?

Operators benefit from a simplified Smart Pendant interface, block-based programming tools, and modern interaction methods such as voice control, gestures, and augmented reality. Automatic trajectory planning with obstacle avoidance also improves safety and operational smoothness.

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