Universal Robots introduces "Gen 7": The new platform for industrial automation and Physical AI applications

– New Robot Platform "Gen 7" Fully Reconfigured, from Controller to Tool Interface to Immediate AI Capability
– Suitable software tools and connectivity to safely integrate AI from laboratory to industrial operation

Universal Robots (UR), a company of Teradyne Robotics and the world's leading manufacturer of collaborative industrial robots, introduced the "Gen 7" robot platform at the IMTS trade fair.

Gen 7 includes a comprehensive system upgrade for even easier robot operation. The platform is based on the PolyScope X robot operating system. The control box, teach pendant, and tool interface have been completely redesigned to automate even the most demanding tasks simply.

"Robots of the AI era should be simple rather than complicated," said Jean-Pierre Hathout, President of the Teradyne Robotics Group. "Gen 7 is built from our over 20 years of Cobot innovation experience and more than 100,000 industrial deployments worldwide. We have redesigned our platform throughout. It significantly reduces integration effort and greatly expands application possibilities. Additionally, the new generation enables our customers and partners across industries to safely deploy AI-powered applications in real-world operations."

The key innovations of Gen 7

– New G-Series robot arms with AI-capable tool interface: The Gen 7 platform expands the offerings of the E-Series and UR-Series with three new robot arms: UR10g-1750, UR17g-1300, and UR18g-950. The nomenclature reflects their payload (kg) and reach (mm).
The new tool interface of the G-Series allows the use of cameras and sensors, providing the necessary data for AI models to work in real-time with the robot. Data, power, and safety functions are supplied directly via the interface. This simplifies wiring and facilitates the connection of high-bandwidth cameras and sensors—an essential factor for advanced automation and Physical AI applications.
Additionally, integrated force-torque sensing, impedance control, and RTDE (Real-Time Data Exchange) give the robot a tactile sense for precise handling or controlled force application.
– CB7 Core Controller: With 40% more computing power and 30% less installation space than previous generations, the new controller enables communication across multiple networks for modern automation and physical AI architectures. It is compatible with PLCs, HMIs, MES platforms, IPCs, and vision systems, reducing the need for external switches. Available at launch as a standalone control box and as a compact version for integration into automation cabinets. The CB7 is also compatible with robots arms of the E-Series and UR-Series.
– PolyScope X: This system offers modern programming tools, safety compliant with ISO 10218-1, and cybersecurity standards for the 7th generation. With open APIs and ROS2 communication, PolyScope X allows programmers to develop and deploy edge AI applications using IPCs and external AI processing. Additional software packages enable integrators to access advanced robot functions such as ProfiSafe, OPC-UA, logic programs, and third-party applications like Rocketfarm Pally or Inbolt 3D Vision Guidance.
– TP7 Core Teach Pendant: The new teach pendant is over 20% lighter and more ergonomic than previous generations. It features multiple grip positions, configurable smart buttons, a full HD display, and a new virtual joystick. Designed for comfortable operation even during long shifts, with intuitive rather than technical programming.
– New SP7 Smart Panel Interface at the Tool Interface: A new feature for direct programming at the tool interface and faster learning of motion sequences. The SP7 Smart Panel includes a safety-compliant "Freedrive" functionality, LED indicators, and three configurable input buttons on which PolyScope X Smart Skills can be executed. The Smart Panel shortens setup and programming time by allowing operators to interact directly at the deployment site. Particularly advantageous for "Touch-to-Teach" applications, small batch sizes, and high variant diversity.
– (Cyber-)Security Focus: The advanced and collaborative safety features of Gen 7 offer a TÜV-certified architecture according to PLd, Category 3 (ISO 13849-1). All G-Series robots are TÜV-certified according to ISO 10218-1 and UL 1740, and Teradyne Robotics is certified according to IEC 62443-4-1 ML3. This ensures secure development practices at every phase of the software lifecycle.

The Physical AI Ecosystem

At IMTS, Gen 7 will be showcased alongside new developments from over 20 partners—including demos of Gen 7 functionality with Cognex, Schunk, Magswitch, Smooth Robotics, Psyonic, Robotiq, and Inbolt. These demos illustrate how the open architecture of this platform enables leading providers of Physical AI, vision systems, and gripping systems to develop applications directly on Universal Robots hardware and software.

"Universal Robots and Inbolt share the belief that automation should be easy to implement and simple to operate in everyday use," said Rudy Cohen, CEO of Inbolt. "With Gen 7 and PolyScope X, Inbolt's vision processing solution now runs natively on the UR controller itself and is directly accessible via UR. No external vision PC or additional wiring is needed. Manufacturers can locate components without fixtures or mounts and start production within hours instead of weeks."

The demonstrations at the trade fair show a comprehensive ecosystem: Gen 7 is supported by UR+, a curated, rigorously tested portfolio of automation products. Each product is validated by both the partner and UR before market launch, reducing integration risk and enabling customers to deploy their robots faster and more securely.