• New RoboMasters robotics skills training app bridges skills gap by enabling beginners and advanced robotics users to train remotely • App supplements ABB’s physical robotics training courses, enabling continued skills development beyond the classroom

ABB today launched RoboMasters, a new app-based training tool offering unprecedented flexibility for learning the skills to program and operate ABB robots. Providing access to a wide range of ABB robot training courses delivered in modules, the app enables users of any level of experience to create their own learning paths at their own pace.

"With over four million industrial robots in use worldwide, finding people with the skills to use robotic automation is becoming a vital competitive differentiator for companies across multiple sectors, from manufacturing to retail," said Michael Hose, Managing Director, Robotics Customer Service. "Offering a flexible and cost-effective training tool, our RoboMasters app opens new possibilities for businesses and individuals to acquire the skills needed to learn and master all aspects of robot operation."

Building in-house skills needed to manage robots can be a hurdle for many businesses that are considering investing in robots. In a global survey of 1,650 companies by ABB Robotics*, 34 percent of respondents identified a lack of skills and concerns about complexity as a barrier to using robots in their businesses. Of these, 29 percent said they would reconsider their decision if training was available.

ABB has already established itself as a leading trainer on robotic automation, with over 25,000 people per year attending courses in its 40 global training centers. The RoboMasters app builds on these physical training courses to provide a convenient, easy-to-use tool for users to create and manage their own learning paths. Designed for anyone at any level of expertise, the app can be tailored to deliver personalized learning experiences, aided by features such as tips-and-tricks videos, feeds and a community function enabling discussions and exchanges with peers and trainers.

Available in over 50 languages, course materials are presented in a variety of formats, including interactive lessons, simulations, and challenges to enhance the user's robotics expertise. To maximize user engagement and interaction, the app also utilizes social learning techniques like gamification, competition, rewards, achieving targets, and ranking. As with ABB's in-person training courses, users will receive a certificate on passing all modules within a course unit, which can be used as proof of competence in programming and using ABB robots.

For businesses, using the app as part of their robot training efforts can reduce or eliminate the cost and disruption of sending employees on physical courses, especially in locations that may not be close to ABB's training center network.

The app can also be used as a refresher for ABB's physical courses, enabling past delegates to practice and further develop their skills using the provided materials and learning functions. This adds value for businesses both by maximizing the original investment in attending ABB's training courses and providing users with an ongoing way of staying up to date on the latest developments and techniques.

For more information about RoboMasters, visit: https://new.abb.com/products/robotics/training/robomasters

References:
*ABB Robotics 2023 survey of 1,650 users across multiple industries in USA, UK, China, Germany, Sweden, Italy and Switzerland. Industries covered - Technology, Healthcare & Pharmaceutical, Engineering, Manufacturing, Automotive, Food & Beverage, Leisure, FMCG and retail, Transportation & Logistics and Construction

ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation as one of the world's leading robotics and machine automation suppliers, is the only company with a comprehensive and integrated portfolio covering robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots and machine automation solutions, designed and orchestrated by our value-creating software. We help companies of all sizes and sectors - from automotive to electronics and logistics - to outperform by becoming more resilient, flexible and efficient. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation supports customers in the transition towards the connected and collaborative factory of the future, operating leaner and cleaner for a better future. The business area employs approximately 11,000 people at over 100 locations in approximately 53 countries.
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ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun'. The company has over 140 years of history and more than 105,000 employees worldwide. ABB's shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com