Manufacturing Tech & Robotics Trends for 2026

Over the last decade, we’ve become increasingly conditioned to embrace and incorporate applications such as smart cars and smart technology in our homes. In the workplace, technology is a ready tool for leaders who look to move to the next level.

Throughout 2025, we saw hints, both large and small, about where our lives and our industries could be heading in terms of machine learning and robotics. The acceleration of these technologies, particularly in the form of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have come with a speed that few of us can wrap our minds around. 

The now-commonplace software and apps are being joined by various iterations of AI and ML along with robots and collaborative robots (cobots) in industrial operations and workplaces of all sizes.

Keeping Pace

The dramatic increase in technology and automation is now taking place at never-before speeds, and humans simply cannot keep up with the pace. As speed and efficiency become more critical, humans are looking for ways to incorporate additional machine learning and technology into their lives. 

Increases in both the speed of life and the speed of learning also continue to accelerate the skills gap. Companies, especially those looking to embrace more automation and technology inputs, will have the additional challenge of attracting a labor force that’s prepared to work in an environment of increasing speed and data. A late 2025 Forbes article entitled “The 5 Robotics Trends In 2026 You Must Get Ready For Now” offered a preview of what we could expect to see in the coming year. 

These technologies include the once futuristic-sounding humanoid robots, cobots in the workplace and home, robotaxis, robots used in construction and engineering, and robots used in warfare. Many in the manufacturing industry continue to use robots to improve efficiencies by eliminating heavy lifting and repetitive tasks for workers. Cobots, machines that work alongside humans, are also being incorporated to help with manufacturing and logistics tasks. Within the industrial setting, the use of cobots could become more commonplace as costs come down.

Key Trends for 2026

• Talent – A long-term talent strategy is necessary to meet the talent and skills gap. Not addressing talent challenges could result in an estimated 2.1 million manufacturing jobs not being filled.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI – Use of technology to improve operational efficiency such as predictive maintenance, optimization of workflows and identification of inefficiencies. Use of cobots can streamline inventory and warehouse operations.

• Supply chain – Technology solutions optimize the supply chain and boost efficiency in addition to new ways to build redundancies into the supply chain.
• Smart operations – Use AI to conduct generalized tasks and help with planning.