• Autonomous multifunctional robots emerge as new core of industrial automation: AI-driven to handle diverse tasks independently
• Product demos visualize tech development, delivering “smart and easy-to-use” new experiences
• Product demos visualize tech development, delivering “smart and easy-to-use” new experiences
At the 10th World Robot Expo 2025, ABB Robotics not only showcased the latest progress of autonomous multifunctional robots but also outlined their future blueprint. Zhang Jiafan, head of ABB Robotics’ China Research Center, gave a keynote speech. He analyzed how AI drives the intelligent upgrading of industrial robots and ABB’s plans for next-gen technologies.
“We are at a key point in the development of AI and industrial robots. Over the past decade, 3D AI vision let robots ‘see’. Advanced force control and high precision let them ‘work precisely’. Autonomous navigation let them ‘move smoothly’. Now, we are integrating these capabilities to a new level,” Zhang said.
“This is the era of autonomous multifunctional robots. They can truly handle multiple tasks independently and flexibly. They can switch between different jobs seamlessly without human help,” he added.
“China’s robot market is full of innovation. Demand for automation in electronics, consumer goods and other industries is growing rapidly,” said Han Chen, ABB Group Senior Vice President and Head of Robotics China.
“ABB has been in China for over 30 years. Through our ‘Lingyu Huazhang’ localization strategy, we combine global technology with Chinese scenarios, rooting in local R&D and production. Next, we will make autonomous multifunctional robots better serve Chinese enterprises. Customized solutions will help them improve efficiency and achieve intelligent transformation,” Han explained.
At the expo, ABB‘s three product demo zones showed the tech development path clearly:
- OmniCore™ controller motion display: The new OmniCore controller works with three IRB 1300 robots. They handle fragile glass cups with high precision—path accuracy under 0.6mm—and high speed—up to 1600mm/s. Compared to old controllers, it is 25% faster and uses 20% less energy, proving new tech balances precision and speed.
- “Follow me” AI application: With AI algorithms, robots can “remember” how operators use tools. They turn this into their own programs to quickly complete grinding debugging. No complex programming is needed. It is perfect for small-batch, multi-variety production, helping SMEs adopt automation easily.
- PoWa collaborative robot demo: A new product under “Lingyu Huazhang”, it is flexible in welding and loading/unloading. It has industrial-grade speed, safe collaboration, and a lightweight, compact design.
Marina Bill, Executive Director of the International Federation of Robotics and Head of ABB Robotics Global Sales & Commercial Operations, believes: “AI is making robot technology more inclusive. Advanced technologies make robots more user-friendly and adaptable. Even SMEs can use automation easily. China is a pioneer in this change. It is not just the largest robot market but also a main force in AI-robot integration innovation.”
“With government support, China is making rapid progress in tech integration in electronics, new energy vehicles and other fields. This pushes intelligent automation to develop quickly,” she added.
ABB Robotics’ Shanghai mega-factory and R&D center, opened in 2022, reflects its pursuit of intelligent production and support for China’s manufacturing. Over 90% of ABB robots sold in China are produced here. As one of the first foreign enterprises to localize the entire value chain in China, ABB also supports clients through a service network covering 22 cities.
ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is a leading global supplier. It offers robots, autonomous mobile robots, automation solutions and more. Through in-house software design, it creates value for enterprises in automotive, electronics, logistics and other industries. It helps them enhance resilience and efficiency, moving towards future factories. The business has over 11,000 employees in more than 100 locations across 53 countries.
