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Software-Defined Automation Revenue Attributable to Industrial AI: 2025 to 2035

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AI in Software-Defined Automation (SDA)

Report | 2Q 2026 | AN-6583

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AI and Software-Defined Automation (SDA) are transforming industrial control systems by virtualizing controllers and embedding AI throughout the engineering workflow. AI agents can automate PLC code generation, migration, optimization, and troubleshooting, while future Physical AI applications will extend these capabilities to robots and intelligent edge devices.

This shift is accelerating the move from PLCs to Industrial PCs (IPCs) and servers, driving demand for AI-enabled hardware such as GPUs, NPUs, and AI accelerators. Leading vendors including Siemens, SUPCON, Rockwell Automation, and CODESYS are advancing AI-enabled automation through differing strategies, from industrial foundation models to flexible software-centric architectures.

A major emerging trend is the development of agent stacks, where multiple AI agents collaborate to design, simulate, optimize, and validate automation projects. While interoperability standards remain immature, AI-driven SDA is expected to see rapid growth, with ABI Research forecasting revenue to increase from approximately US$567,500 in 2026 to over US$5.4 billion by 2035. For a deeper analysis of these SDA and industrial AI trends, as well as to get a revenue breakdown by technology segment (SCADA/HMI software, DCS, PLC, IPC, and soft/virtual controller), download the report, AI in Software-Defined Automation (SDA).