Bosch Rexroth is expanding its ctrlX AUTOMATION platform with new artificial intelligence, mobile robotics, safety, drive, and software technologies. Announced on November 3, 2026, the innovations are scheduled to be demonstrated at SPS 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany, from November 24 to 26.

The announcement highlights two major developments: Agent iXi, an AI agent designed to perform engineering tasks within an automation environment, and RoXi, a mobile humanoid robotics demonstration combining transportation and flexible material handling.

Agent iXi Brings AI into PLC Engineering

One of the key developments is Agent iXi, an agentic AI solution integrated into the ctrlX AUTOMATION environment.

According to Bosch Rexroth, Agent iXi can interpret objectives defined by human users, divide them into individual steps, and execute supported tasks using engineering tools, applications, documentation, and automation data.

Its intended applications include component and system topology selection, motion and drive configuration, I/O configuration, PLC program generation, system monitoring, and technical documentation.

For PLC engineers and system integrators, this approach could help simplify repetitive engineering activities and reduce the time required to prepare automation projects.

Bosch Rexroth emphasizes that engineering activities remain subject to human control. Agent iXi operates within defined access permissions, and its actions are logged and traceable.

The solution is currently in beta, with availability expected in early 2027.

Mobile Humanoid Robotics Expands Factory Automation

Another important highlight is RoXi, a mobile humanoid robot demonstration based on the ctrlX AUTOMATION Mobile Robots solution set.

The system combines mobile transportation with robotic handling capabilities. Potential applications include loading machines, removing workpieces, and supplying production materials.

To perform these tasks reliably, mobile robots must coordinate localization, navigation, motion control, functional safety, and industrial communication.

Bosch Rexroth’s platform combines compatible control hardware and software, I/O modules, and laser-based localization technology to provide an integrated foundation for these applications.

Safety, Connectivity, and Industrial Control

Beyond AI and robotics, Bosch Rexroth is expanding its automation portfolio with ctrlX SAFETY, new servo drive options, and ctrlX OS 4.6.

The latest operating system release includes single sign-on, enhanced OPC UA security features, and integrated Git version management. Bosch Rexroth also highlights IEC 62443-4-2 Security Level 2 certification for the platform.

These developments are relevant to manufacturers seeking more flexible automation architectures without compromising industrial cybersecurity and functional safety.

The announcement reflects a broader shift toward software-driven automation, where PLC programming, robotics, industrial networking, and AI-assisted engineering are becoming increasingly connected.

For industrial manufacturers, the challenge will be to combine these new capabilities with established control systems while maintaining reliability, traceability, and safe production operations.