Robots, Robots, and More Robots: Top Takeaways from Automate 2025

REAL-WORLD ROBOTICS AND SMARTER CONNECTIVITY

Automate 2025 offered a comprehensive glimpse into the future of robotics. Hosted in Detroit, this year’s event was the largest in the show’s history, according to the Association for Advanced Automation. Despite ongoing uncertainty around tariffs, rising costs, and global instability, the energy on the show floor was optimistic. More than 900 exhibitors and 45,000 attendees gathered to explore the latest breakthroughs in automation and robotics. The spotlight was on real-world applications—from collaborative cobots and advanced AMRs to next-generation systems powering humanoid robots. Across the floor, exhibitors showcased a shared commitment to interoperability and ecosystem development—critical pillars driving the robotics revolution.

REAL-WORLD ROBOTICS, AI INTEGRATION, AND THE GROWING NEED FOR SMARTER CONNECTIVITY SOLUTIONS

With over 40% of manufacturers planning to increase AI budgets by 2028, robotics is rapidly transitioning from R&D labs to production floors. IoT-enabled integration allows robotic systems to share real-time operational data, trigger predictive maintenance, and interface seamlessly with broader smart factory infrastructures. As these systems grow more advanced, the need for compact, high-performance connectivity becomes critical. Connectors that support both high-speed data and power in miniaturized footprints are in high demand—enabling reliable performance in increasingly complex robotic applications.

Industrial Robotic Arms

Advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, sensor technology, and automation software continue to enhance the capabilities of industrial robotic arms. At Automate 2025, these systems demonstrated increased speed, precision, and payload capacity—supporting demanding tasks like assembly, packaging, painting, and welding. As manufacturers aim to reduce robot footprints, there’s growing interest in compact, dual-arm platforms and modular end-effectors. However, limited design space remains a core challenge, making it critical to choose components—such as compact, high-performance connectors—that support dense integration without sacrificing functionality.

Cobots

Collaborative robots (cobots) were a standout at Automate 2025, with numerous booths demonstrating real-world applications like palletizing, welding, and material handling. Designed to work safely alongside human operators, cobots feature integrated force and torque sensors, enabling responsive motion control in dynamic manufacturing environments. With enhanced software and AI-driven perception, cobots are now capable of managing complex workflows, identifying patterns, and adapting in real time—minimizing the need for manual intervention or reprogramming. Their flexibility, safety, and ease of deployment make cobots a key driver in smart factory adoption.

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Autonomous Mobile Robots

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), including delivery robots and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), are reshaping logistics and material handling across industries. At Automate 2025, AMRs were prominently featured, with manufacturers unveiling next-generation platforms designed for heavier payloads, smarter navigation, and greater operational flexibility. The latest AMRs demonstrated advanced capabilities in autonomous routing, obstacle avoidance, and real-time coordination with warehouse systems.) Compared to previous years, there was a noticeable leap in performance, especially in loading, unloading, and adapting to dynamic floor environments—key improvements for factories and distribution centers aiming to scale automation.

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Humanoid Robots

Delivery robots, AGVs (automated guided vehicles), and AMRs (autonomous mobile robots) are revolutionizing logistics, and high-quality, dependable connectors are essential to these advanced systems. Hirose's connectors, known for their durability, reliable signal transmission, and longevity, play a key role in powering these robots.

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SOLUTIONS

By collaborating with OEMs to create tailored connector solutions, Hirose can address unique connectivity needs with more efficient and effective solutions for emerging robotic trends. Hirose Electric's advanced connector solutions have played a crucial role in the evolving landscape of robotic designs.

Hirose's DF62 Series slim in-line connectors are ideal for internal wiring for robotic applications with limited space. These connectors offer a water-resistant, slim design for internal wiring, ensuring secure and reliable connections in tight spaces. Robust I/O multi-functional controllers with a strong die-cast shell and user-friendly locking control provide reliable connectivity for advanced robotics. Space-saving designs with smooth contours, noise-resistant EMI pathways and floating features that absorb board amplitude in rugged environments make Hirose the go-to choice for manufacturers seeking cutting-edge solutions for their advanced robotics applications.

 The ix Industrial® connector has gained traction in robotic Ethernet applications due to its compact size and rugged design. With a 75% volume reduction compared to RJ45 and support for 10 mm pitch parallel mounting, it allows more functionality within a smaller footprint—ideal for robot controllers requiring dense PCB layouts. A secure latch and EMI protection ensure long-term reliability in harsh industrial settings.

Hybrid connectors, like the FX23 Series, play a key role in robotic systems by combining signal and power into a single interface. This allows OEMs to increase functionality without adding bulk, while also simplifying board layouts. By reducing the number of connectors that need to be soldered or attached to the PCB, hybrid designs help streamline assembly and potentially lower manufacturing costs.

Collaboration Highlight: Hirose + Fanuc America at Automate 2025
At Automate 2025, Hirose Electric teamed up with Fanuc America Corporation to spotlight real-world collaboration in robotics. The Fanuc CRX-10iA, known for its safety, precision, and adaptability, was featured alongside Hirose’s ix Industrial® Series—highlighting how compact, high-speed connectivity enhances advanced robotic systems. This powerful pairing demonstrated how connector design and robot performance go hand-in-hand to meet the evolving demands of factory automation.

CONCLUSION

Industrial robots have become essential to smart manufacturing, increasing the demand for compact, durable connectors that support high-speed data and power transmission. Hirose’s advanced solutions meet these requirements—all vital aspects for robotic applications. Exhibiting at Automate 2025 provided an ideal platform for Hirose Americas to highlight our innovations, connect with industry leaders, and reinforce our role in advancing robotics and automation. From robotic arms and AMRs to next-generation humanoid systems, Hirose connectors help OEMs to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

AUTOMATE 2025 | Image source Hirose Electric Americas

Explore Our Robotics & Automation Resources

Hirose’s high-performance connector solutions are enabling smarter robotics, tighter integration, and more efficient production across modern factories. Explore the following resources to see how we’re helping engineers meet the evolving demands of automation and connectivity:

• eBook: Unlock the fundamentals of connectors in smart manufacturing—from data to power, learn how to design for reliability and performance.

• Webinar: Dive into the future of robotics and smart factories with Hirose experts—featuring real-world challenges and connector solutions.

• Application Guides: Get actionable design insights for robotic arms, AMRs, and embedded systems—built to support dense layouts and rugged environments.

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For more information on how Hirose Electric's connectors can transform your wearable device design, visit hirose.com or contact our team of experts today.