Automate 2026

Manual inventory tasks like cycle counting are time-consuming, inefficient, and even hazardous. However, automating these processes through an automated device, bringing together autonomous mobile robots with inventory drone technology, provides inventory tracking, while improving speed, and safety and reducing costs. Powered by Ericsson Private 5G’s high-speed, low-latency connectivity, these drones navigate indoor spaces, scan inventory in real time, and adapt to changing demands—boosting efficiency and customer satisfaction. 

In manufacturing, connected workers use Push-to-Talk (PTT) technology to instantly communicate with each other via dedicated devices, such as smartphones, walkie-talkies, or wearables. With the press of a button, workers can share updates, coordinate tasks, and make faster decisions, all while staying focused on their work. PTT enhances collaboration, reduces downtime, and improves efficiency, making it ideal for hands-free communication in fast-paced environments. 

On the factory floor, tethered fixed wired industrial assets constrain the agility of manufacturing operators to quickly re-tool their factory when responding to product changes and dynamic market conditions. Discover how 5G private cellular networks offer the promise of being a viable technology to augment and even replace traditional wired industrial network connections – a game changer in terms of cost, flexibility, sustainability, and time-to-market for industrial operations around the world as they embark on their digital transformation journeys.

Manufacturers often struggle to track machine utilization and equipment effectiveness. Predictive maintenance solves this by using sensor data to identify the best time for maintenance, reducing downtime and costs. These sensors generate valuable data, requiring a secure, reliable network. Learn how private cellular networks enable predictive maintenance to improve efficiency, cut costs, and optimize labor.

Digital twins in manufacturing create a virtual replica of a facility, enabling real-time monitoring, simulation, and optimization of operations. This demonstration showcases a model facility layout within a digital twin, allowing users to simulate the placement of 5G antennas for optimal network coverage. By testing connectivity for devices, machines, and tablets in a virtual environment, manufacturers can ensure seamless operations, reduce disruptions, and maximize efficiency before deployment in the physical space.

Wireless connectivity is key to smart factories and Industry 4.0. As manufacturers digitally transform, legacy networks may fall short, driving the need for 5G solutions. Discover how Ericsson’s secure Private 5G connects machines, people, and data—boosting productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness.

In today’s connected manufacturing environment, reliable indoor connectivity is critical to both worker and customer experiences. Ericsson’s Neutral Host delivers secure, low-latency 5G across production floors and logistics zones—supporting real-time operations, automation, and high device density for robotics, sensors, and connected equipment. Enable smart building and IoT systems to optimize workflows, reduce downtime, and maximize ROI with scalable, future-ready infrastructure.

In manufacturing operations, Industrial IoT is a core building block for smart factories and digital supply chains. It improves reliability and accessibility across networks of factories by augmenting existing operation technologies (OT) with various sensors, gateways and edge devices. In this demonstration, Ericsson is showcasing a smart torque wrench with 5G wireless connectivity, featuring smart tightening strategies and superior torque accuracy, reducing cycle time while ensuring maximum productivity with maximum flexibility.

With unmatched speed and coverage, cellular broadband is transforming Wireless WAN solutions. Organizations are now prioritizing cellular routers and adapters as core WAN infrastructure. Explore Ericsson's LTE and 5G routers and adapters, powered by NetCloud, delivering cloud-based management, SD-WAN capabilities, enterprise-grade security, real-time analytics, and seamless control—all in one platform.

Ericsson 5G Precise Positioning delivers sub-meter accuracy in complex indoor environments where GPS falls short. With enhanced connectivity, ultra-low latency, and high-density support, it powers key manufacturing applications like indoor navigation, asset tracking, inventory monitoring, and autonomous robot guidance. Discover how this technology meets the growing demand for precision in smart manufacturing.

To stay competitive, manufacturers must embrace digital transformation—but knowing where to start can be challenging. Take the Ericsson Smart Manufacturing Maturity Assessment to evaluate your progress and receive a personalized report comparing your maturity level to industry peers.