AI in Automation to Hit $5B by 2035 as Virtualization Redefines Control Systems
Event summary
- ABI Research forecasts AI-driven automation revenue to exceed $5B by 2035, led by SCADA/HMI software, DCS software, IPCs, and virtual controllers.
- Near-term growth rates projected at 25% for AI in DCS software, 20.1% for AI in IPCs, and 17.9% for soft/virtual controllers (2025–2035).
- Process industries expected to lead adoption as they modernize operations and expand AI pilots.
- Key vendors like Siemens, SUPCON, Rockwell Automation, and CODESYS are shaping the competitive landscape with AI-integrated solutions.
The big picture
AI is shifting from an overlay to a foundational element in industrial automation, enabling faster engineering workflows and addressing skills gaps. The $5B revenue forecast underscores how virtualization and software-defined control systems are becoming the new standard for manufacturers seeking flexibility. Key players are already investing heavily in AI-driven solutions, setting the stage for a competitive race to dominate this evolving market.
What we're watching
- Adoption Pace
- How quickly process industries will scale AI pilots beyond initial deployments.
- Competitive Dynamics
- Whether Siemens, SUPCON, and Rockwell Automation can sustain leadership as AI integration deepens.
- Technological Evolution
- The pace at which agent stacks and orchestration layers transform SCADA systems into AI-powered hubs.
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