The 2026 edition of Indusights’ flagship robotics study captures a critical shift in industrial automation: the rise of the “cognitive robotic node.” This early-access preview reveals new market segmentation, ASP shifts, and platform economics as articulated arms evolve from task tools to intelligent, AI-integrated systems. A must-read for OEMs, integrators, and strategic investors.

A mid-sized mining operator in Western Australia, undertook a full operational overhaul by integrating digital twins, predictive analytics, and remote systems. For a miner of its scale, these moves were a precursor to a wider shift. The early results hint at something beyond incremental: faster decisions, fewer disruptions, and outsized gains. Could this become the blueprint that helps other mid-tier operators move faster and further than expected?

Rio Tinto’s Gudai-Darri, opened in 2022 as a digital-first iron ore site. Robotics, AI, autonomous trucks, trains and advanced data systems were embedded from day one. The mine runs with 23 autonomous haul trucks, 3 autonomous drills and reached 50 Mtpa output in 2024. It is a milestone for the industry. A site that redefines what the smartest mine in the world means. A benchmark for the years ahead.