Samsung Electronics is embarking on a sweeping transformation of its global manufacturing operations, aiming to fully integrate artificial intelligence across the entire production chain by 2030. The ambitious plan, unveiled today, centers on creating ‘AI-Driven Factories’ that leverage advanced AI to optimize everything from logistics and production to quality control and shipping. This move signals a significant shift for the tech giant, building on its recent advancements in Agentic AI, first showcased in the Galaxy S26 series, and extending that expertise into its industrial processes.
The initiative isn’t simply about automating existing tasks; it’s about building a next-generation, autonomous production environment. Samsung intends to utilize digital twin-based simulations – virtual replicas of its physical factories – to test and refine processes before implementation. Specialized AI agents will be deployed to focus on specific areas like quality control, production efficiency, and logistical coordination, strengthening data-driven analysis and pre-validation. The company believes this will lead to elevated quality standards and increased productivity across its global network.
Beyond production, Samsung is also integrating AI into Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) operations. The goal is to proactively detect potential hazards and implement automated prevention systems, enhancing workplace safety across all its facilities. This commitment to safety reflects a broader trend in the manufacturing sector, where companies are increasingly looking to AI to mitigate risks and protect their workforce.
At the heart of this transformation is ‘Agentic AI,’ a technology capable of autonomously planning, executing, and optimizing decisions to achieve defined objectives. YoungSoo Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Technology Research at Samsung Electronics, stated, “The next phase of manufacturing innovation lies in building autonomous environments where AI truly understands operational contexts in real time and independently executes optimal decisions.” Lee further emphasized the company’s commitment to “leading the transformation toward AI-powered global manufacturing innovation.”
Robotics and the Future of Samsung’s Factories
To accelerate this transition beyond traditional automation, Samsung is strategically introducing a range of robotics into its production lines. These include Operating Robots for general line operations and facility management, Logistics Robots designed for autonomous material handling and transport, and Assembly Robots focused on precision manufacturing tasks. In areas where human access is limited or dangerous, the company will deploy digital twin-integrated Environmental Safety Robots to monitor conditions, identify risks, and proactively mitigate hazards.
This isn’t a sudden leap, but a progressive introduction of robotics designed to work alongside existing systems and gradually increase autonomy. The integration of digital twins will be crucial, allowing Samsung to simulate and optimize the interaction between AI agents, robots, and human workers before deploying changes to the physical factory floor. This approach minimizes disruption and maximizes efficiency.
Showcasing the Vision at MWC 2026
Samsung will be demonstrating its industrial AI strategy and digital twin-based manufacturing innovation vision at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 in Barcelona, taking place from March 2-5. The company will showcase how industrial AI can enhance both safety and efficiency in real-world manufacturing environments. The announcement comes as Samsung continues to expand its AI capabilities beyond consumer electronics.
A Governance Strategy for AI Autonomy
Alongside the technological advancements, Samsung is also addressing the ethical and safety considerations of increased AI autonomy. At the Samsung Mobile Business Summit (SMBS), celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the company will introduce a ‘governance strategy for expanding AI autonomy.’ This strategy focuses on embedding safety mechanisms into the design phase of AI systems, ensuring responsible and trustworthy expansion of industrial AI for its customers and partners. SMBS is a private, invitation-only event for key B2B customers and partners, where Samsung shares its B2B strategy and explores collaboration opportunities.
This emphasis on governance is a critical component of Samsung’s overall strategy. As AI systems become more autonomous, ensuring their safety and reliability is paramount. By proactively addressing these concerns, Samsung aims to build trust and foster wider adoption of its AI-driven manufacturing solutions.
The move towards AI-driven factories represents a significant investment in the future of manufacturing. Samsung’s strategy, encompassing robotics, digital twins, and a robust governance framework, positions the company as a leader in this evolving landscape. The full impact of this transformation will unfold over the next several years, with the 2030 target date serving as a key milestone. The company will provide further updates on its progress at future industry events and through official announcements.
Samsung’s next major update on this initiative is expected at the Samsung Mobile Business Summit later this year, where details of the AI governance strategy will be unveiled. What are your thoughts on the increasing role of AI in manufacturing? Share your comments below.
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