Schaeffler’s strategic investment in Agility Robotics and its integration of generative AI technologies are pivotal steps in enhancing its capabilities in the humanoid robotics sector. In November 2024, Schaeffler made a minority investment in Agility Robotics, the creators of the bipedal humanoid robot, Digit. This partnership includes plans to deploy Digit robots across Schaeffler’s global network of 100 plants by 2030, aiming to revolutionize manufacturing and logistics operations. The collaboration is expected to accelerate the adoption of humanoid robots in industrial settings, enhancing automation and operational efficiency.

Schaeffler has been proactive in incorporating generative AI across its product portfolio. Collaborating with Siemens, the company introduced Siemens Industrial Copilot, an AI-powered assistant designed to optimize engineering and operational tasks. This tool aids automation engineers in generating code for programmable logic controllers (PLCs) through natural language inputs, streamlining complex programming tasks and reducing the potential for errors. Additionally, the Industrial Copilot assists maintenance teams in swiftly identifying and resolving machine errors, thereby minimizing downtime and enhancing overall efficiency.