The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) has released its Top 5 Global Robotics Trends for 2026 and if proven correct, they could have significant implications on the world’s materials handling sector.

The top five trends, per IFR, are robots becoming allies in tackling labour shortages; increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in robotics; humanoids improving their reliability and efficiency; robots becoming more versatile with the use of operational technology and; the importance of ensuring safety and security in robotics.

The value of global industrial robot installations is at a record USD16.7 billion, according to the IFR, and this is only set to increase.

Here are the top five trends in more detail.

AI & autonomy in robotics 

The IFR says robots using AI to work independently are becoming more common, with AI able to increase their autonomy.

From analysing large datasets to generative AI marking a “ key shift from rule-based automation to intelligent, self-evolving systems”, we are seeing the evolution of Agentic AI, which combines the two to create robots which work independently in complex environments.

Robots gain versatility as IT meets OT

As information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) converge, an element foundational to Industry 4.0 (also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution or the Intelligence Age), the combined capabilities will “enhance robotics versatility through real-time data exchange, automation, and advanced analytics.

Humanoids to improve reliability and efficiency 

“Today, companies and researchers are moving beyond prototypes to deploy humanoids in real life,” the IFR states. “Reliability and efficiency are key to success.

“Humanoids intended to fill labor gaps need to achieve human-level dexterity and productivity, key measures to prove real world efficiency.”

Safety and Security in Robotics

However, with the rise of robots, also comes the need for oversight, according to the IFR.

“In the context of AI in robotics and the convergence of IT and OT, a spectrum of safety and security concerns arise that demand robust governance and clear assignment of liability,” the industry body states. 

"The rapid expansion of robotics systems into cloud-connected and AI-driven environments is exposing industrial production to a growing array of cybersecurity threats.

“The legal and ethical ambiguity surrounding liability has prompted calls for clear frameworks to govern AI deployment.”

Robots as allies in tackling labour gaps

One of the most important forecasts from the IFR is that robots will become able to fill gaps created by the global labour shortage.

“Employers around the world are struggling to find people with the specialized skills required,” IFR states. These unfilled jobs leave existing staff covering extra shifts, with rising stress and fatigue across all sectors. 

“A key strategy for addressing this issue is to adopt robotics and automation. In this transformation process, employers benefit from taking their human workforce on board.”

The IFR states close co-operation with employees when implementing robots is critical in ensuring acceptance. 

“The benefits that robots deliver, such as tackling labor shortages, taking away routine tasks or opening up new career opportunities, mean that they will be accepted as allies in the workplace.”