Gen 7 combines collaborative robots, smarter software, advanced sensing, and AI-ready connectivity to help manufacturers build more flexible automation systems

Chicago, 17 September 2026 – Industrial automation is moving beyond machines that simply repeat programmed tasks. As manufacturers look for systems that can sense their surroundings, respond to changing conditions, and work with advanced artificial intelligence, robotics platforms are becoming more connected and intelligent.

Universal Robots is responding to this shift with Gen 7, its seventh-generation collaborative robotics platform. Introduced at the IMTS 2026 trade show in Chicago, Gen 7 brings together redesigned robot hardware, a new controller, updated operator interfaces, and PolyScope X software in one connected platform.

The platform is designed to make advanced automation easier to integrate while supporting physical AI applications. Physical AI refers to artificial intelligence that allows machines to understand and respond to the physical world through sensors, vision, movement, and real-time data.

At the heart of Gen 7 are three new g Series robot arms: the UR10g 1750, UR17g 1300, and UR18g 950. The robots are designed for applications requiring different combinations of payload and reach. Their redesigned tool flange provides power, data, and safety connections directly at the end of the robot arm, making it easier to connect cameras, sensors, and other tools.

This design can reduce the amount of external cabling and hardware needed when integrating advanced equipment. The robots also include force-torque sensing, impedance control, and Real-Time Data Exchange capabilities. These features can support tasks where robots need to respond carefully to physical contact, such as assembly and object handling.

Another major part of Gen 7 is the CB7 Core controller. Universal Robots says the controller provides 40 percent more computing power while occupying 30 percent less space than the previous generation. It also supports connections with industrial systems such as programmable logic controllers, human-machine interfaces, manufacturing execution systems, industrial computers, and vision equipment.

The software foundation is PolyScope X. Built with open application programming interfaces and ROS 2 communication, the platform allows developers to connect external computing systems and develop edge AI applications. Additional technologies such as OPC UA and ProfiSafe can also support industrial communication and safety requirements.

Gen 7 also introduces the TP7 Core teach pendant and SP7 Smart Panel. The new teach pendant is lighter and includes a full HD display, configurable controls, and a virtual joystick. The Smart Panel brings controls closer to the robot tool, helping operators teach and manage tasks directly at the point of operation.

Universal Robots is also emphasizing its wider automation ecosystem. More than 20 partners were showcased alongside Gen 7 at IMTS, demonstrating applications involving machine vision, gripping, sensing, and physical AI. The platform remains connected to the UR+ ecosystem of validated automation technologies.

With Gen 7, Universal Robots is positioning collaborative robotics as a foundation for the next stage of industrial automation. By bringing robotics, sensing, connectivity, software, and AI capabilities closer together, the platform is designed to help manufacturers move advanced automation from development environments into real production settings.

As factories become more digital and production requirements become more varied, platforms that can combine automation with real-time intelligence could play an increasingly important role in modern manufacturing.