• Autonomous multifunctional robots lead industrial automation innovation: AI-enabled to perform multiple tasks independently
• Product demos decode tech development logic, presenting “smart and efficient” new experiences

During the 10th World Robot Expo 2025, ABB Robotics showcased the latest achievements of autonomous multifunctional robots and shared the industry’s future direction. Zhang Jiafan, head of ABB Robotics’ China Research Center, delivered a keynote speech. He explained how AI injects intelligent power into industrial robots and ABB’s outlook on next-gen technologies.

“The development of AI and industrial robots is  a key breakthrough period. Over the past decade, we gave robots ‘vision’ through 3D AI vision. We equipped them with’skillful hands’ via advanced force control and high precision. We let them ‘move’ through autonomous navigation. Now, we are integrating and upgrading these capabilities,” Zhang said.

“This is the era of autonomous multifunctional robots. They can handle multiple tasks completely independently. They can switch between different jobs quickly without human intervention,” he added.

“China is a hotbed of global robot innovation. Demand for automation in electronics, consumer goods and other industries continues to grow,” 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 deepen local R&D and production. This integrates global technology with Chinese scenarios deeply. We will further promote the application of autonomous multifunctional robots in China. Customized solutions will help Chinese enterprises improve efficiency and achieve intelligent transformation,” Han noted.

At the expo, ABB showed its tech development ideas through three product demo zones:

Marina Bill, Executive Director of the International Federation of Robotics and Head of ABB Robotics Global Sales & Commercial Operations, pointed out: “The robot industry is undergoing AI-driven inclusive change. Advanced technologies make robots easier to operate and more adaptable to different scenarios. Even SMEs can access automation.”

“China is at the forefront of this change. It is not only the world’s largest robot market but also an important driver of AI-robot integration innovation. With government support for smart manufacturing, China is accelerating tech integration—especially in electronics and new energy vehicles. This pushes intelligent automation to land quickly,” she added.

ABB Robotics’ Shanghai mega-factory and R&D center, operational since 2022, reflects its vision for intelligent production and commitment to 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 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, efficiency and flexibility, moving towards future factories. The business has over 11,000 employees across more than 100 locations in 53 countries.