Agentic AI and Humanoid Robots Bring New Possibilities to Industrial Automation

Bosch Rexroth is preparing to showcase new developments in industrial automation, with a particular focus on Agentic AI and mobile humanoid robotics at SPS 2026, one of Europe’s major industrial automation trade fairs. On November 4, 2026, the company announced that its ctrlX AUTOMATION platform will be at the center of its presentation in Nuremberg, Germany, from November 24 to 26.

The announcement reflects an important shift in the automation industry. Artificial intelligence is moving beyond traditional data analysis and digital assistance toward systems capable of performing specific tasks autonomously. At the same time, mobile robotics is evolving from material transportation toward more flexible applications that can actively support manufacturing operations.

How Agentic AI Is Changing Industrial Control Engineering

One of the key technologies highlighted by Bosch Rexroth is Agentic AI. Unlike conventional AI assistants that primarily provide information or recommendations, AI agents are designed to access relevant knowledge, use available tools, and execute defined tasks according to specific objectives.

Within the ctrlX AUTOMATION ecosystem, Bosch Rexroth is developing an architecture that connects AI capabilities with automation knowledge, data, and software functions.

For industrial engineers, this development could create new opportunities in machine configuration, engineering workflows, system diagnostics, and production optimization. However, practical applications still require appropriate testing, authorization, and integration with existing control architectures.

Mobile Humanoid Robotics Expands Factory Automation

Another major highlight is mobile humanoid robotics. Traditional industrial robots are generally designed for specific, repetitive tasks, while autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are widely used for material transportation and intralogistics.

Mobile humanoid robots introduce another possibility: combining autonomous mobility with more versatile physical interaction.

Bosch Rexroth plans to demonstrate how its open automation platform provides the technological foundation for these emerging applications. The combination of motion control, drive technology, software, and intelligent automation could help manufacturers explore more flexible production environments.

Nevertheless, practical deployment will depend on safety requirements, payload capacity, positioning accuracy, cycle times, and the ability to integrate robots into existing production systems.

The Role of PLCs and Open Automation Platforms

Although AI and robotics are attracting increasing attention, PLCs, industrial controllers, I/O modules, sensors, drives, and communication networks remain essential components of modern manufacturing systems.

Open automation architectures such as ctrlX AUTOMATION aim to connect different hardware and software technologies within a more flexible engineering environment. This approach is particularly relevant to manufacturers looking to modernize existing equipment while maintaining compatibility with established industrial processes.

For system integrators, the growing combination of AI, robotics, and conventional control technologies may create new opportunities for machine modernization, digital integration, and customized automation solutions.

SPS 2026: What to Expect

SPS 2026 will take place in Nuremberg, Germany, from November 24 to 26. Bosch Rexroth will present its ctrlX AUTOMATION innovations in Hall 7, Booth 450.

The company’s presentation will include Agentic AI, mobile humanoid robotics, new ctrlX OS ecosystem partners, and developments in high-performance hardware and software.

As industrial automation continues to evolve, the integration of intelligent software, advanced robotics, and reliable control hardware will become increasingly important. For manufacturers and automation professionals, SPS 2026 will provide an opportunity to explore how these technologies may shape the next generation of smart factories.