Explore the Top 10 Industry 4.0 Trends and Innovations [2026]

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Executive Summary: What are the Top 10 Industry 4.0 Trends in 2026 & Beyond?

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Deloitte’s 2025 smart manufacturing and operations survey reported 41% of respondents prioritize investing in factory automation hardware in the next 24 months. While 34% focus on active sensors and 28% prioritize computer vision systems.
2. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT deployments give factories a better view of the production process and help them make more things faster. This results in a 25% improvement in employee productivity.
3. Advanced Robotics: Advanced robotics lowers costs and makes operations more flexible, which makes it easier to quickly adjust to changing production needs. Replacing a single shift worker with a USD 50,000 robot will save an estimated USD 40,000 to USD 60,000 a year in salaries and benefits.
4. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: The world’s energy needs climbed by 2.2%, which is more than the average growth rate over the past ten years. About 40% of this growth comes from the industrial sector, which uses 4% more electricity than it did before.
5. Cybersecurity: Combining information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems has made it easier for cyber threats to get in. The rise of IoT and IIoT devices makes these weaknesses much worse.
6. Edge, Fog, and Cloud Computing: Edge, fog, and cloud computing in Industry 4.0 enable real-time responsiveness and scalable analytics. 75% of manufacturers report cloud migration as very effective.
7. Digital Twins: Depending on how advanced the installation is, digital twins can cut maintenance costs by 15% to 55%. It also cut down on the time when assets were not working by 20%.
8. Additive Manufacturing: AM cuts lead times by as much as 80% for prototype and tooling and 70% for complicated multi-tier supply chain parts.
9. Augmented Reality (AR): The global augmented reality market was valued at USD 83.65 billion. It is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 37.9% between 2025 and 2030.
10. Blockchain: Smart contracts and automation are two of the main reasons people are using them. Smart contracts can lower transaction fees by up to 50% and administrative costs by 40% in manufacturing settings.

Read on to explore each trend in depth – uncover key drivers, current market stats, cutting-edge innovations, and 20 leading innovators shaping the future.

Methodology: How We Created the Industry 4.0 Trend Report

For our trend reports, we leverage our proprietary StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering 9M+ global startups, 20K technologies & trends, plus 150M+ patents, news articles, and market reports.

Creating a report involves approximately 40 hours of analysis. We evaluate our own startup data and complement these insights with external research, including industry reports, news articles, and market analyses. This process enables us to identify the most impactful and innovative trends in Industry 4.0.

For each trend, we select two exemplary startups that meet the following criteria:

• Relevance: Their product, technology, or solution aligns with the trend.
• Founding Year: Established between 2020 and 2025.
• Company Size: A maximum of 200 employees.
• Location: Specific geographic considerations.

This approach ensures our reports provide reliable, actionable insights into the Industry 4.0 innovation ecosystem while highlighting startups driving technological advancements in the industry.

Innovation Map outlines the Top 10 Industry 4.0 Trends & 20 Promising Startups

For this in-depth research on the Top Industry 4.0 Trends & Startups, we analyzed a sample of 884 global startups & scaleups. The Industry 4.0 Innovation Map created from this data-driven research helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you a comprehensive overview of  Industry 4.0 trends & startups that impact your company.

Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Industry 4.0 Trends in 2026

Based on the Industry 4.0 Innovation Map, the Tree Map below illustrates the impact of the top 10 Industry 4.0 trends. The sector centers on Artificial Intelligence as the primary intelligence layer that enables predictive analytics, autonomous decision-making, and process optimization across manufacturing, maintenance, and supply chain operations.

IoT provides continuous machine and sensor data that supports real-time visibility and condition-based monitoring at scale. Advanced robotics expands automation through collaborative and adaptive systems suited for flexible production environments

Cybersecurity underpins connected factories by securing operational technology networks against rising attack volumes. Edge, fog, and cloud computing distribute compute workloads to balance latency, scalability, and cost. Digital twins replicate physical assets to improve throughput and lifecycle performance.

Global Startup Heat Map covers 884 Industry 4.0 Startups & Scaleups

The Global Startup Heat Map showcases the distribution of 884 exemplary startups and scaleups analyzed using the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform. It highlights high startup activity in India and the USA, followed by France. From these, 20 promising startups are featured below, selected based on factors like founding year, location, and funding.

Want to Explore Industry 4.0 Innovations & Trends?

Top 10 Emerging Industry 4.0 Trends [2026 and Beyond]

1. Artificial Intelligence: 95% of Manufacturers to Invest in AI/ML

Last year, Deloitte surveyed 600 executives from large manufacturing companies and reported 29% are using AI or machine learning at the facility or network level. While 24% have deployed generative AI (GenAI) at the same scale.

Another survey by the Manufacturing Leadership Council revealed that 89% of manufacturing companies expect the growth of investments in AI-powered smart factories to increase or remain unchanged.

The AI in manufacturing market is estimated to be at USD 34.18 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 155.04 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 35.3%.

Machine learning algorithms analyze large volumes of data, which lowers downtime and enhances product quality within the manufacturing industry. Over the next five years, 95% of manufacturers have made investments in AI/ML or intend to do so.

Deloitte’s 2025 smart manufacturing and operations survey reported 41% of respondents prioritize investing in factory automation hardware in the next 24 months. While 34% focus on active sensors and 28% prioritize computer vision systems.

The use of AI is set to fast-track manufacturing operations. By 2030, 45% of total economic gains will come from product enhancements, stimulating consumer demand. AI drives greater product variety with increased personalization, attractiveness, and affordability.

Further, AI-enabled predictive maintenance reduces maintenance costs by 30% and unplanned downtime by 45%. 94% of organizations also believe that AI will help create more opportunities than be a threat to their industry.

According to Deloitte Insights, generative AI offers a substantial return on investment, and AI and machine learning have the biggest influence on business results among smart manufacturing technologies.

DHI.AI offers Computer Vision Analytics

Indian startup DHI.AI offers DHI Vision, a computer vision analytics platform that uses machine learning and AI to turn images into actionable insights. The platform offers applications including intrusion detection, unsafe act identification, anomaly detection, and quality control in production lines.

The platform processes visual data from cameras that monitor commercial, residential, and industrial settings. The platform improves operating safety, surveillance capabilities, and higher product quality through real-time monitoring and analysis.

DHI Vision enables organizations in a variety of industries to improve overall operational efficiency by streamlining procedures, lowering risks, and ensuring adherence to safety regulations.

Datalytic.ai enables Worker Productivity Monitoring

Malaysian startup Datalytic.ai creates AI productivity monitoring systems that use AI to examine worker activity, identify inefficiencies, and offer actionable insights.

The system assesses performance metrics to identify areas requiring productivity improvements. It collects information on job completion rates, application usage, and workflow patterns to inform these assessments.

The AI analytics dashboard offers personalized recommendations, in-depth analytics, and real-time monitoring. This allows businesses to increase productivity and streamline processes while improving labor productivity.

2. Internet of Things: IoT Increased Productivity by 52%

IoT enables continuous gathering of data from industrial surroundings with sensors and smart devices. This real-time data flow helps to monitor operations, spot inefficiencies, and facilitate quick, data-driven decision-making.

The global IoT in manufacturing market is estimated to be at USD 141.8 billion in 2025 and is predicted to be USD 673.95 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 16.1%.

Businesses that employ industrial internet of things (IIoT) software report 32% lower labor expenses, 52% more productivity, and a 24% decrease in energy use.

The number of connected IoT devices was 18.5 billion last year. It is expected to grow 14% year-over-year to 21.1 billion by the end of 2025.

In a survey by Ubisense, three in five manufacturers reveal embracing IoT technologies in their manufacturing or assembly processes. Further, just over two in five manufacturers leverage real-time location systems (RTLS). RTLS offers visibility into operations, which enables process optimization and swift responses to dynamic production demands.

IoT implementations allow factories to gain visibility over the production process and further increase production efficiency. For example, Piramal Glass analyzes more than 200 million data points from 4000 IoT sensors connected across its production units. This allows the company to reduce manual data gathering by 40%. This results in a 25% improvement in employee productivity.

Engapplic enables No-code IoT Integration

Spanish startup Engapplic offers a plug-and-play, zero-code edge-to-cloud computing platform that simplifies configuring, deploying, and monitoring IoT devices. The CopioT platform allows users to connect, control, and keep an eye on devices connected to the cloud without any programming requirement.

The platform enables devices to generate essential services, such as graphs, business intelligence reports, alerts, notifications, and predictive maintenance.

It is also able to send data to the cloud. It offers secure time-series data storage, visualization, and dynamic graphs of current and past data. This includes comprehensive business intelligence reports and customized alerts and notifications.

Engapplic enables businesses to align with Industry 4.0 standards by deploying CopioT to improve decision-making, increase process monitoring, and maximize efficiency.

Sensyrtechs offers Unified IIoT Operations

US-based startup Sensyrtech provides a unified platform for IIoT. The platform enhances operational efficiency and prevents costly downtime. The startup’s unified system combines condition monitoring, asset tracking, remote monitoring, and smart maintenance.

Sensyrtech’s plug-and-play connectivity enables real-time visibility into asset performance and operational circumstances. It is done by using extremely long-range and strong wireless sensors. This integration allows for proactive maintenance techniques, which reduce unscheduled downtime and maximize resource use.

Sensyrtech’s solution promotes operational excellence and productivity by streamlining employee communication and improving decision-making procedures in line with Industry 4.0 requirements.

3. Advanced Robotics: 542 000 Robots were Installed Last Year

The World Robotics report recorded 4 281 585 units operating in factories worldwide. In 2025, reports show that 542 000 robots were installed last year, which is double the number 10 years ago.

In the US alone, 4.6 million jobs in manufacturing need to be filled in the next decade. It is projected that 2.4 million jobs may be left open due to a lack of trained workers.

The global advanced robotics market is expected to grow to USD 246.02 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 19.09%.

Last year, robotics startups received USD 4.2 billion in venture capital funding. This indicates that the industry is seeing an increase in investment.

Advanced robotics reduces operational costs and increases flexibility, which enables rapid adaptation to changing production needs. A USD 50 000 robot yields an estimated annual saving of USD 40 000 to USD 60 000 in wages and benefits by replacing a single shift worker.

Robotics also improves safety in manufacturing by taking on tasks that include high volumes of materials and repetitive tasks. This also improves accuracy, which avoids human error. 23% of unplanned downtime in manufacturing was found to happen due to human error.

Advanced Robotics automates Logistical Operations

Hungarian startup Advanced Robotics provides automated order picking and material handling technologies as well as intelligent logistics solutions.

It offers fast installation and enhances warehouse efficiency. The startup’s material handling solutions provide flexible, easily deployable systems implemented in any warehouse and production environment quickly.

Advanced Robotics’ technologies save time, energy, and money by improving logistical operations in factories and warehouses.

TechnoRobotics offers Collaborative Robots

Israeli startup TechnoRobotics provides collaborative robotic systems that improve industrial precision, safety, and efficiency. The startup combines intelligent automation, collaborative robots, and bespoke services to simplify industrial processes like welding, palletizing, metal bending, and CNC machine tending.

These cobots improve production accuracy and reduce physical strain by assisting human operators without any significant changes to current workflows.

These solutions benefit small and medium-sized businesses due to their real-time adaptability. It also offers easy programming and easy integration with different manufacturing setups.

The startup’s cobots convert conventional manufacturing settings into productive, flexible, and future-ready production ecosystems.

4. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: Manufacturing Sector emitted 10.26 billion tonnes of CO2e

Last year, the manufacturing sector emitted 10.39 billion tonnes of CO2e, contributing to 17.23% of the total emissions. Similarly, the global energy demand grew by 2.2%, which outpaced the global average over the last decade. Around 40% of this growth is driven by the industrial sector, with the industrial electricity usage rising by 4%.

The global sustainable manufacturing market is at USD 233.56 billion in 2025 and is predicted to reach USD 367.18 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 11.3%

Electrification is the major contributor to sustainable manufacturing practices. From the 10 500 industrial electric motor-driven systems screened by ABB, 5900 were found to provide energy savings of 43%. This is equivalent to 941 000 MWh or the annual energy use of 91 715 US households.

One McKinsey case study demonstrates how an optimization engine is embedded within the digital twin. This provides users with informed recommendations that resulted in a 7% reduction in carbon emissions and a 5% improvement in customer orders received on time.

According to Meticulous Research, the need for green and recycled materials is expected to drive the growth of the global sustainable manufacturing market. Increasing consumer and multinational attention to sustainability will also contribute to this growth.

Companies like Apple, Intel, and Tesla are also investing in recyclable components, energy-efficient manufacturing, and closed-loop recycling programs.

Gaius AI advances Sustainable Food Production

German startup Gaius AI offers Smart Extrusion, an AI-driven platform that improves and automates the extrusion process to maximize food production. The technology continuously analyzes various production factors, including temperature, pressure, and ingredient composition. It also integrates with existing machinery to make real-time modifications.

The startup ensures consistent product quality across categories such as snacks, cereals, pet food, and meat substitutes while minimizing waste and resource usage. Smart Extrusion detects inefficiencies and modifies processes to increase yield and reduce manufacturing costs by utilizing machine learning.

The platform also promotes sustainable food production by lowering energy use and waste from raw materials. Gaius AI enables producers to increase operational efficiency, maintain high-quality standards, and achieve cost-effective, data-driven production in the rapidly evolving food industry.

Reventador enables Process Optimization for Sustainability

German startup Reventador provides SmartZero, an enterprise-level sustainability software program. The platform lowers carbon emissions and boosts productivity by combining real-time data analytics with Industry 4.0 technology.

The platform allows companies to evaluate performance, spot inefficiencies, and make targeted improvements. It does this by integrating IIoT equipment to monitor energy, water, and pollutants.

Its AI-powered knowledge system Digital Joules provides best practices to industrial teams, enhancing decision-making and operational expertise. SmartZero allows companies to reach net-zero emissions and zero-loss efficiency, which lowers expenses while meeting sustainability goals.

Reventador’s scalable, data-driven platform ensures compliance, cost savings, and a reduction in the long-term environmental effect. It allows industrial and commercial businesses to expedite their shift to a net-zero future.

5. Cybersecurity: Cyber Attacks Increased by 71% Last Year

The integration of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems has increased the number of potential entry points for cyber threats. The proliferation of IoT and IIoT devices further expands these vulnerabilities.

Every system and linked device creates new vulnerabilities, which makes it simpler for hackers to exploit weak links in digital supply chains and smart factories. There was a 71% surge in threat actor activity targeting manufacturing between 2024 and Q1 2025.

The industrial cybersecurity market is expected to expand at a 9.8% CAGR to USD 135.11 billion by 2029.

OT security investments have demonstrated an average ROI of up to 400%, primarily driven by the prevention of high-cost operational disruptions.

The integration of IT and OT security functions into a unified strategy saves companies an average of USD 1.5 million by eliminating redundant tools and streamlining workflows.​

Additionally, companies that detect and contain breaches in fewer than 200 days save over USD 1 million per incident (reducing average costs from USD 5.01 million to USD 3.87 million).​

RubyComm offers Cybersecurity for OT Equipment

Israeli startup RubyComm offers cybersecurity solutions for OT equipment, protecting sensitive communications, IoT devices, and industrial systems from cyber threats. Its Rubyk OT, Rubyk WiFi, Rubyk Print, and Rubyk X solutions combine encryption and real-time threat detection to safeguard legacy and modern OT infrastructure.

RubyComm’s technology lowers the risk of cyberattacks and unauthorized intrusions by ensuring secure communication channels, network segmentation, and access control. RubyComm’s solutions fit different industrial settings and offer security without the need for specialized cybersecurity personnel.

This allows organizations to protect critical infrastructure, ensure operational continuity, and maintain regulatory compliance.

SafeTech offers a Deception Engine

UK-based startup SafeTech offers a cybersecurity solution, OTShield, that guards against cyberattacks on SCADA and industrial IoT systems.

The startup utilizes proprietary deception techniques to identify, stop, and evaluate threats in OT networks. It improves situational awareness by mapping all assets and tracking operational details in real time through continuous visibility.

The system uses machine learning to detect and neutralize known and unknown threats across all nodes, allowing for proactive alert investigation. OTShield also collects threat intelligence to understand attackers’ tactics, techniques, and procedures, enabling enterprises to foresee and counteract possible incursions.

SafeTech’s implementation of OTShield ensures the security and resilience of vital infrastructures in the Industry 4.0 era. It does so by enabling industrial processes to adjust to changing cyber threats.

6. Edge, Fog & Cloud Computing: 75% of Manufacturers Migrated to Cloud Systems

The majority of advanced Industry 4.0 implementations combine the three paradigms: cloud for enterprise analytics and large-scale storage, fog for decentralized or near-edge analytics, and edge for real-time processing.

The global market for edge computing is expected to grow at a compound annual CAGR of 28%. It is expected to rise from USD 564.56 billion in 2025 to USD 5.132 trillion by 2034.

Further, the global fog computing market is expected to reach USD 8.358 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 50.8%.

Additionally, the global industrial cloud market is expected to reach USD 130.58 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 14.85%.

Edge, fog, and cloud computing support process optimization, automated quality control, predictive maintenance, and real-time production monitoring.

Cloud computing provides scalable, flexible platforms for storing, processing, and analyzing vast datasets generated by smart factories. This reduces the need for substantial on-premises infrastructure while facilitating data-driven decision-making, predictive maintenance, and the quick deployment of new apps.

Edge, fog, and cloud computing in Industry 4.0 enable real-time responsiveness and scalable analytics. It also provides secure data management and the flexibility needed for smart manufacturing and connected infrastructure.

In a survey conducted by Infosys, 75% of manufacturing and automotive companies report cloud migration as very effective.

Further, the implementation of 5G delivers bandwidth increases of 4 to 100 times compared to 4G networks, with average speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to peak speeds of 10 Gbps. This massive bandwidth enhancement allows edge computing nodes to handle significantly more data streams simultaneously. This supports data-intensive applications like high-definition video streaming, augmented reality experiences, and computer vision systems.

Netrasemi offers Embedded Intelligence

Indian startup Netrasemi creates domain-specific, power-efficient system-on-chips (SoCs) that embed intelligence to improve the functionality and responsiveness of small and compact devices.

Its SoCs enable real-time edge-AI computing appropriate for various AI/ML application cases. The startup integrates a proprietary deep neural processor, Tej-NPU, with a diverse portfolio of in-house silicon intellectual property.

The architecture ensures smooth data flow and performance without major CPU load. It also supports multi-core CPUs with Linux and RTOS compatibility, along with a range of hardware accelerator cores.

Netrasemi enables effective and cost-effective product development by offering adaptable APIs, SDKs, and application reference designs. This solution enables solution providers to quickly introduce AI capabilities to the market by maximizing performance and power efficiency in their respective fields.

Factorian connects Machines to Edge Servers

​US-based startup Factorian simplifies the execution of enterprise manufacturing processes with its plug-and-play, zero-code edge-to-cloud computing platform.

Its platform enables the collection of data in real time from operations and machinery without extensive infrastructure or IT resources. It archives operational and machine data by integrating streaming data sources, enabling real-time alerts on both native and derived data streams.

It is a subscription-based model that includes both software and optimized hardware. It offers automated archiving of time-series and batch data, and simple access to operational data.

This scalable solution enables firms to make well-informed decisions and streamline procedures in accordance with Industry 4.0 guidelines by improving operational visibility and efficiency.

7. Digital Twins: 44% of Manufacturers Already Use Them

Digital twins enable businesses to significantly increase productivity and lower operating costs. They simulate, monitor, and optimize assets and processes in a virtual setting.

The global digital twin market is expected to reach USD 149.81 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 47.9%. Approximately 30% of manufacturing organizations are spending over USD 10 million on digital twin technology.

Digital twin adoption is accelerating rapidly across industries. 44% of manufacturers already use digital twin technology, while an additional 15% are considering implementation in the near future. Further, 86% of manufacturing leaders believe digital twins can help streamline operations at their factories.

Additionally, the implementation landscape reveals varying maturity levels: 41% of organizations are in the pilot phase, 20% report full integration, and 15% use digital twins in selected areas. Among companies in advanced industries, approximately 75% have already adopted digital twin technology.

MetAI generates Digital Twin Scenes

Taiwanese startup MetAI creates intelligent logistics center solutions that enhance warehouse operations by fusing 3D and AI using its MetSynthesizer generative algorithm.

The technique allows for real-time simulation and logistics process optimization. It converts 2D layout designs into fully functional 3D digital twin environments.

It offers the creation of sim-ready assets, the automatic detection of layout symbols, and the integration of various pieces of equipment within the digital twin. These solutions cut down project planning time from hours to minutes.

Glass-Link enables Real-time Asset Connectivity

Irish startup Glass-Link offers real-time, long-range industrial IoT connectivity that links physical assets to digital twin models for continuous monitoring and control.

It utilizes distributed sensor nodes, industrial interfaces, and wireless backhaul to collect operational data from equipment and environments. It then streams this data into digital replicas that mirror field conditions with low latency, including in harsh and remote sites.

The startup supports use cases such as factory and production line monitoring. It enables organizations to standardize asset connectivity with minimal additional infrastructure. The solution further improves process insight and reduces downtime and operating costs.

8. Additive Manufacturing: Shortens Lead Time by 80%

Additive Manufacturing (AM), also referred to as 3D printing, reduces reliance on international supply chains and lowers the risk of material shortages or logistical delays.

It enables producers to localize and decentralize production. AM uses only the necessary material to construct components layer by layer, unlike traditional subtractive manufacturing.

The global AM market is estimated to reach USD 88.28 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 23.3%

AM allows enterprises to make parts locally and on demand, shortens lead times, increases manufacturing agility, and reduces dependency on global supply chains. Studies and industrial cases from last year indicate that AM shortens lead times by up to 80% for prototyping and tooling applications and 70% for complex multi-tier supply chain components.

BeamShape offers Electron Beam-assisted 3D printing

​Czech Republic-based startup BeamShape provides an Electron Beam Melting (EBM)-based 3D printer. This solution builds components layer by layer by selectively melting metal powder in a vacuum using a high-power electron beam. EBM reduces internal tensions and creates strain-free parts without requiring additional heat treatment by operating at high temperatures.

The method works well with these difficult materials, including copper, titanium, and tungsten, that have strong electron absorption rates. Additionally, the EBM technique allows for support-free printing, without the need to construct and remove support structures, by pre-sintering surrounding powder.

BeamShape’s solution caters to the needs of demanding applications in the energy, aerospace, defense, and medical industries by providing effective, high-quality manufacturing.

NeoFoam facilitates Foam 3D Printing

Spanish startup NeoFoam creates 3D-printed digital foam products for producers in a variety of sectors. The startup uses additive manufacturing processes to create customizable, recyclable foam items without using conventional molds. This reduces waste and speeds up production schedules.

NeoFoam’s technology offers variable density capabilities, which improve comfort and functionality by providing control over foam stiffness within a single product. This provides various applications, including protective gear, seating systems, and orthopaedic insoles.

The startup replaces traditional foam materials, advances digital manufacturing, and reduces its environmental impact to provide its customers with efficient and sustainable foam solutions.

9. Augmented Reality: AR results in 32% Productivity Improvements

Augmented reality advances industrial training and empowers even novice workers to execute complex tasks with precision by overlaying digital instructions directly onto machinery. This lowers the possibility of mistakes during crucial maintenance or assembly, speeds up skill acquisition, and decreases errors.

AR’s ability to visualize machine status and provide step-by-step repair guidance makes maintenance safer and more effective.

In 2024, the global augmented reality market was valued at USD 83.65 billion. It is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 37.9% between 2025 and 2030.

Businesses report an average 32% productivity improvement when adopting AR in manufacturing, with some implementations showing up to 50% performance improvement. Training costs have been dramatically reduced, with AR cutting onboarding periods by up to 50% and enabling 40% reductions in training time for complex machinery.

NHoD Industries enables Remote Maintenance

French startup NHoD Industries creates AR remote maintenance solutions that improve the efficiency of industrial processes.

Its platform allows technicians to interact with virtual information and physical equipment while completing maintenance chores by receiving real-time, overlaid digital instructions and assistance.

It offers virtual reality training modules, digital twin activation, and 3D modeling of industrial processes to enhance technician proficiency and decrease operational downtime.

NHoD Industries’s AR solutions allow organizations to improve their industrial value chain by optimizing maintenance procedures. It improves staff training and achieves higher operational efficiency.

ARDe offers an AR Work Management System

Japanese startup ARDe develops an augmented reality–based work management system that supports manufacturing operations through real-time guidance, monitoring, and documentation of industrial tasks.

The system connects AR devices with IoT-enabled tools to project 3D models onto the user’s head-mounted display. This visually indicates the correct order and position for each step of assembly or maintenance work.

The platform also tracks worker actions and evaluates tool alignment and part placement using image recognition. It also automatically saves performance data and visual records.

The startup ensures that on-site engineers and service personnel maintain procedural accuracy and efficiency while minimizing manual errors. This enhances manufacturing work quality, streamlines process oversight, and reduces overall operational labor costs.

10. Blockchain: 5K Companies Implemented Blockchain for Supply Chain

With the strong demand from businesses for automation, data integrity, and traceability in digitally connected factories, blockchain in manufacturing is growing. The global market for blockchain in manufacturing is at USD 2.356 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 323.62 growing at a CAGR of 63.6%.

The growing complexity of supply chains, the growing regulatory focus on compliance and provenance, and the growth of IoT-enabled industrial systems create a lot of machine data. More and more, manufacturers use blockchain to protect production logs, verify where parts come from, and use smart contracts to automate transactions.

Last year, with 70% adoption rates, approximately 5000 companies implemented blockchain for supply chain applications.

Supply chain traceability is still the most common use case, which makes up about half of all blockchain deployments in manufacturing. The automobile and pharmaceutical industries are the most likely to adopt it because of the high risk of recalls and compliance expenses.

Smart contracts and automation represent key adoption drivers, with smart contracts capable of reducing transaction fees by up to 50% and cutting administrative costs by 40% in manufacturing environments.

Additionally, 47% of supply chain organizations identified blockchain as a crucial technology advancement for visibility and automation, while 43.5% of companies reported challenges in sharing information with logistics partners. This highlights the problem blockchain addresses.

Flugantia Lab optimizes Industrial Waste Management

Italian startup Flugantia Lab develops Twin Control, a blockchain-secured IoT platform for industrial waste management. The startup leverages networked sensors and edge devices to capture, encrypt, and transmit real-time operational and geolocation data into a distributed ledger for traceable monitoring and decision support.

It connects industrial waste containers, vehicles, and treatment assets through embedded sensors that track fill levels, temperature, movement, and equipment status. The management software aggregates these data streams into dashboards and analytics workflows that support route planning, asset utilization, and compliance reporting.

It integrates geo-tracking, predictive analytics, and automated alerts so that operators adjust collection routes and intervene early on anomalies such as overfilled or unsafe containers. It also schedules maintenance before failures occur, while blockchain technology preserves tamper-resistant records across stakeholders.

Autentica facilitates Procurement Authentication

UK-based startup Autentica provides a unified Web3 platform that authenticates and distributes 3D-printed parts through a secure digital supply chain. It operates a blockchain-based procurement ecosystem where manufacturers, repair centers. It allows suppliers to connect to access verified digital designs and execute traceable transactions.

By embedding intellectual property on the blockchain using Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), the startup ensures design integrity, prevents counterfeiting, and maintains full lifecycle visibility for every component produced.

The startup’s system utilizes data management and distributed production coordination, which allows users to monitor real-time part fabrication and logistics across global facilities. The startup accelerates authenticated manufacturing and sustainable procurement by merging blockchain trust with rapid digital production.

Discover all Industry 4.0 Trends, Technologies & Startups

Industry 4.0 in 2026 reflects a clear shift from experimentation toward scaled execution across manufacturing ecosystems. Investment data shows that AI, IoT, robotics, and digital twins now deliver measurable gains in productivity, cost reduction, energy efficiency, and resilience.

Over the next three to five years, competitive advantage will depend on integrating these technologies into unified operating models rather than deploying them in isolation. Companies that align automation, digital trust, and workforce augmentation strategies are positioned to capture higher margins, faster time-to-market, and regulatory readiness.

The Industry 4.0 Trends & Startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation & startup scouting process. Identifying new opportunities & emerging technologies to implement into your business goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage.