ABB Robotics Debuts at 2025 World Robot Expo, Unveiling Future of Autonomous Multifunctional Robot Technology

• AI-powered autonomous multifunctional robots will reshape industrial automation: they can independently plan and execute various tasks
• Product demos outline technological evolution path, showcasing “smart and convenient” new experiences

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.At the 10th World Robot Expo 2025, ABB Robotics presented the latest achievements of its autonomous multifunctional robots and shared its future vision. Zhang Jiafan, head of ABB Robotics’ China Research Center, delivered a keynote speech. He detailed the intelligent advancement path of industrial robots empowered by AI and ABB‘s outlook on next-generation technologies.

2.We are in a critical transition period for the development of AI and industrial robots. Over the past decade, we gave robots ‘eyes’ through 3D AI vision. We equipped them with ‘hands’ via advanced force control sensing and high-precision flexibility. And we granted them ‘mobility’ through autonomous navigation technology. Now, we are integrating these capabilities to a higher level,” Zhang said.

3.This is what we call the era of autonomous multifunctional robots—a new era of true versatility and autonomy. Robots can switch between different tasks in real time and smoothly without human intervention,” he added.

4.China is one of the world’s most innovative robot markets. Demand for automation is rising rapidly in high-growth sectors like electronics, consumer goods, and general industries,” noted Han Chen, ABB Group Senior Vice President and Head of Robotics China.

5.ABB has been in China for over 30 years. Through our ‘Lingyu Huazhang’ localization strategy, we deepen local R&D and production. This integrates global technical accumulation with Chinese scenario innovation to boost ‘China’s intelligent manufacturing’,” Han explained. “We will expand the application of autonomous multifunctional robots in China, helping enterprises upgrade efficiency and achieve intelligent transformation with customized solutions.”

At the expo, ABB set up three product demo zones:

1.OmniCore™ controller motion challenge unit: It pairs ABB‘s new OmniCore controller with three IRB 1300 robots. They handle fragile glass cups to show high-precision, high-speed motion—with path accuracy within 0.6mm and speed up to 1600mm/s. Compared to previous controllers, it boosts speed by 25% and cuts energy use by 20%, proving next-gen tech balances precision and speed.

2.Follow me” AI solution: Using AI algorithms and quick motion modeling, robots can record operators’ tool movements. They then convert these into their own programs for grinding tasks. This skips tedious traditional programming, enabling fast deployment—ideal for small-batch, multi-variety production and lowering automation barriers for SMEs.

3.PoWa collaborative robot demo: A new product under “Lingyu Huazhang”, it shows flexibility in welding and loading/unloading. It combines industrial-grade speed, excellent collaboration, and lightweight, compact design.

Marina Bill, Executive Director of the International Federation of Robotics and Head of ABB Robotics Global Sales & Commercial Operations, added: “The robot industry is undergoing AI-driven inclusive change. Advanced technologies make robots more adaptable and user-friendly, helping SMEs adopt automation. China is at the forefront. It is not only the world’s largest robot market but also a key driver of AI-robot integration. With government support for smart manufacturing, China is accelerating this integration—especially in electronics and new energy vehicles—pushing new intelligent automation to iterate quickly.”

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ABB Robotics’ Shanghai mega-factory and R&D center, operational since 2022, reflects its vision for intelligent, flexible production and commitment to China’s advanced manufacturing. Over 90% of ABB robots sold in China are produced here. As one of the first multinationals to localize the entire value chain—R&D, manufacturing, sales, and service—in China, ABB supports clients via a network covering 22 cities.

ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is a global leader in robotics and mechanical automation. It offers a full portfolio: robots, autonomous mobile robots, and automation solutions. Through in-house software design and integration, it creates greater value. It helps enterprises of all sizes in automotive, electronics, logistics, etc., enhance resilience, efficiency, and flexibility. It also paves the way for connected, collaborative future factories—leaner, cleaner, and better. The business has over 11,000 employees across 100+ locations in 53 countries.

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