The manufacturing industry is entering an exciting new phase where AI agents are becoming central to how factories operate. This weekly update highlights major developments in agentic AI that are transforming production, efficiency, and decision-making across the globe.

The biggest news comes from Fujitsu in Japan, which launched a new dedicated AI platform designed to help companies manage AI agents autonomously. This platform lets businesses build and run AI agents without needing lots of special training. The platform includes special safety features to catch problems before they happen, and it can be installed in a company's own buildings or at Fujitsu's data centers. Registration for early trials starts in February 2026, with the full launch expected in July.

Meanwhile, Microsoft highlighted what they call the "agentic era" of manufacturing. Instead of just automating single tasks, AI agents now work alongside human teams to coordinate decisions and optimize entire workflows in real time. Companies like Audi in Germany are already using AI-powered assistants to answer questions and provide support, cutting onboarding time by 75% and freeing workers to focus on important tasks.

The bigger picture shows that while most manufacturers want to use AI, many struggle with disconnected systems. About 98% of manufacturers are exploring AI, but only 20% feel fully prepared to use it at scale. The challenge isn't the AI itself—it's connecting all the different computer systems so AI agents can access real-time information and make better decisions.

Companies that successfully implement AI agents report impressive results. Manufacturers using unified data platforms see up to 50% fewer defects, 50% fewer inventory shortages, and 40% fewer equipment failures. The expected return on investment over three years reaches 457%. These aren't distant promises—they're results companies are seeing right now.