Global robotics trends 2025

In this article

• • 1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • 2. Humanoid robots
  • 3. Sustainability and energy efficiency
  • 4. Robots in new sectors
  • 5. Robots as a solution for labor shortages
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The global market for industrial robots continues to grow and has reached a record high of $16.5 billion in 2025. Innovations in technology, changing market conditions, and new applications are driving the increasing demand for automation. Here are five key trends.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence is playing an increasingly significant role in the development of robots, making them smarter and more efficient. There are three key advancements:

• Analytical AI helps robots process and analyze large amounts of data. This improves their ability to handle changing conditions, such as in dynamic production environments or public spaces. For example, robots equipped with vision systems can recognize patterns and optimize their tasks.
  
• Physical AI enables robots to train themselves in simulated environments. This allows them to learn through experience without requiring manual programming.
  
• Generative AI is being used to make robots even more advanced. This could lead to a breakthrough similar to what ChatGPT meant for physical AI. This technology will play a crucial role in both the industrial and service sectors.

2. Humanoid robots

Robots with a human-like appearance are becoming increasingly popular. The vision is that they can function as versatile assistants, performing household tasks or working on production lines.

However, manufacturers are currently focusing on humanoid robots for specific tasks. They are widely used, particularly in the automotive and logistics sectors. Whether these robots will ultimately be economically viable and scalable remains to be seen. Nonetheless, there are applications, such as warehouse work, where a human-like form can offer advantages.

3. Sustainability and energy efficiency

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important due to stricter environmental regulations and the drive for more efficient production processes. Robots can help manufacturers operate more sustainably.

• With their high precision, robots reduce material waste and improve production efficiency.
• Automation ensures consistent product quality, extending product lifespan and lowering maintenance costs.
• Robots are essential for keeping production cost low and scaling up manufacturing, especially in the production of green technologies (solar panels, batteries for electric vehicles, and recycling equipment).
• By using lighter materials, energy-saving sleep modes, and innovative grippers, robots themselves are also becoming more energy-efficient.

4. Robots in new sectors

Robotics is expanding into industries where automation has traditionally been less common. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular lag behind larger companies due to the high investment costs of robotic systems.

• Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS) enables businesses to use robots without a high initial investment. Instead of purchasing, companies pay for usage.
• Not all applications require highly advanced robots. Simpler, more affordable robots can be a smart solution for many businesses.
• Robots are increasingly being adopted in new sectors, such as construction, laboratories, and warehouses. Global developments have highlighted the importance of local production, driving the demand for automation.

5. Robots as a solution for labor shortages

Many industries are struggling with labor shortages, partly due to an aging population. This issue is particularly significant in countries like the United States, Japan, China, South Korea, and Germany. While the impact varies by country, it has global consequences for supply chains.

Robots can help by taking over dirty, dangerous, or repetitive tasks, allowing employees to focus on more engaging and valuable work. Innovations such as cobots and mobile manipulators make it easier to quickly fill workforce gaps.

Source: International Federation of Robotics (IFR)