Welcome to the Special Automate 2026 Issue.
As the automation industry prepares to gather in Chicago for Automate 2026, this issue explores a sector that is evolving rapidly—not just in terms of technology, but in how that technology is deployed, integrated and trusted.
For many years, discussions around machine vision and robotics focused on hardware performance. Faster cameras. More capable robots. Greater processing power. While those advances continue, the industry’s priorities are changing.
Today, the conversation is increasingly centred on outcomes.
How do organisations deploy machine vision successfully? How can AI deliver measurable value on the factory floor? What role does robotics play in addressing labour shortages, improving quality and increasing operational resilience? And perhaps most importantly, how do these technologies work together as part of larger automation ecosystems?
These themes run throughout this issue.
Our cover feature explores the emergence of the new machine vision stack, examining how sensors, edge computing, artificial intelligence and industrial software are converging to create more intelligent automation systems. We also take a closer look at the major trends shaping Automate 2026 and the technologies, products and companies that deserve attention on the show floor.
Beyond the technology itself, we explore a broader shift taking place across the industry. Automation is maturing. As machine vision, robotics and AI become increasingly embedded within critical operations, reliability, deployment, governance and trust are becoming just as important as innovation.
Whether you’re attending Automate, evaluating your next automation project or simply keeping pace with a fast-moving industry, I hope this issue provides valuable insight into the technologies and ideas shaping the future of machine vision.
Enjoy the issue.
Tom Tiner
Editor
MVPro Media
