Rockwell Automation introduces AI orchestration platform

Rockwell Automation has announced FactoryTalk Conductor, a new AI-native orchestration platform designed to coordinate AI-driven tasks throughout the industrial automation lifecycle. The software aims to connect AI agents, capabilities, and workflows from system design through to operation and maintenance.

The platform is scheduled for presentation at Automation Fair 2026 in Boston, with a commercial release planned for the first quarter of 2027. This launch follows findings from the company’s 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report, which indicates that one-third of manufacturing operations already incorporate artificial intelligence.

In the food and beverage sector, research shows that nearly 90% of manufacturers are using or planning to use AI and machine learning. However, a significant gap remains in scaling these technologies, as manufacturers currently report effectively utilizing only about 45% of the data they collect. To achieve enterprise-wide impact, the report suggests that companies must move beyond isolated pilots toward integrated digital transformation strategies that connect operational and business systems.