Digital Transformation in Industry Can Be Phased, ABB Offers Low-Risk Modernisation
ABB Ltd. has introduced an approach to digital transformation in industry that can be implemented in stages without disrupting operations. Through the Automation Extended programme and the launch of the latest ABB Ability™ System 800xA® 7.0 control system, the global electrification and automation technology company is providing a stable and low-risk modernisation pathway for industrial players.
The approach is designed to help companies update their distributed control systems (DCS) while maintaining production continuity. Industries can continue to leverage existing systems while adopting new technologies such as advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) according to their individual readiness levels.
Currently, the industrial sector faces increasingly complex pressures, ranging from market volatility and cybersecurity threats to regulatory demands and changing workforce dynamics. Automation Extended has been developed to address these challenges through innovations that can be implemented quickly without halting production processes.
“In the various industries we serve—many of which operate large and complex infrastructure—industrial players need modernisation that does not disrupt operations. Automation Extended brings future capabilities into systems they already know and trust, with security and interoperability as key foundations,” said President of ABB Automation Business Area, Peter Terwiesch, at an iftar event with the media in Jakarta, Wednesday (25/2/2026).
Operators can continue to leverage proven platforms such as ABB Ability™ System 800xA®, ABB Ability™ Symphony® Plus, and ABB Freelance. Modernisation is carried out through a structured pathway that maintains the integrity of the core system while opening up opportunities for increased efficiency, flexibility, and operational performance.
This approach uses a separation of concerns architecture that separates the control environment from the digital environment. The main control system remains stable and precise, while the digital layer enables the implementation of real-time analytics, edge intelligence, and the use of AI and machine learning to support decision-making without affecting critical operations.
The automation ecosystem is built with open and modular standards to ensure interoperability and scalability across various sectors, from power generation to oil and gas. The integration of technologies such as Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) and cloud-native architectures also enables proactive anomaly detection, continuous asset condition monitoring, and optimisation of maintenance strategies.
As part of a long-term modernisation strategy, the company has also launched ABB Ability™ System 800xA® version 7.0 with a Long Term Support (LTS) scheme. This system provides a stable upgrade path for both legacy installations and new projects, with broad compatibility with the latest operating systems and more flexible virtualisation support.
“System 800xA 7.0 marks an important step for us in delivering innovation while maintaining continuity. This version provides a robust platform today and paves the way for Automation Extended functionality, so customers can adopt next-generation digital technologies in stages without disruption,” said Senior Vice President of ABB Automation Technology, Stefan Basenach.
The latest version also features a modular delivery model through Extension Packs, enhanced cybersecurity aligned with IEC 62443 standards, and improved system connectivity and interoperability. This helps industrial players reduce operational risks while lowering the total cost of ownership.
Automation Extended and System 800xA 7.0 are designed to accelerate the transformation towards smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable industrial operations. The flexible modernisation pathway provides assurance for companies to innovate without sacrificing operational reliability and readiness for increasingly autonomous systems.