**ABB Robotics Launches Visual SLAM-Powered Autonomous Forklift for Flexible Material Handling**
ABB Robotics has introduced a new addition to its mobile robotics portfolio: the Flexley Stack F712 autonomous forklift. Designed for demanding material handling, end-of-line storage, and warehouse operations, the F712 represents a step toward more scalable and interoperable automated logistics solutions. The company noted that the system is part of a broader push to increase efficiency, flexibility, and adaptability in industrial environments, particularly where labor constraints and throughput demands are pressing challenges.
Unlike many existing automated forklifts, the F712 relies on visual simultaneous localization and mapping (vSLAM) rather than pre-installed infrastructure such as markers or reflectors. This approach enables the system to operate using a rich 3D view of its surroundings, supporting accurate navigation with reported positional precision of ±10 mm. According to ABB, the forklift can handle various load types—including open or closed pallets, containers, and racks—supporting weights up to 2,000 kg and heights reaching 8.5 m.
The F712 is built on the Flexley platform, joining other vSLAM-equipped models such as the Flexley Tug and Flexley Mover. The portfolio includes multiple robot sizes and configurations, from omnidirectional platforms capable of carrying two pallets to smaller units designed for modular integration. ABB Robotics emphasized that compatibility across these different robot types allows them to work together seamlessly on shared workflows, improving overall system flexibility.
Integrated with ABB’s AMR Studio software and compatible with the VDA 5050 standard, the F712 is intended to simplify fleet management, traffic coordination, and real-time monitoring. The software suite supports no-code setup and rapid deployment, and it allows mixed fleets to operate within the same layout. ABB representatives stated that collaborative robot behavior—such as coordinated path planning and adaptive routing—can reduce operational bottlenecks and enhance throughput in environments such as automotive plants and distribution centers.
Potential applications include warehouse storage and retrieval, line-side supply, end-of-line logistics, and buffer operations. The company also highlighted that the F712 meets relevant ISO and ANSI safety standards and can run at speeds up to 1.7 m/s while loaded.
The launch aligns with broader trends in industrial automation, including increased integration of AI-driven decision-making, interoperable robotics fleets, and scalable material handling strategies. As manufacturers continue to address workforce limitations and throughput pressures, systems like the Flexley Stack F712 are intended to provide flexible, infrastructure-light alternatives for modern logistics operations.
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**Source:**
“The new Flexley Stack F712 autonomous forklift can work in storage and retrieval, says ABB Robotics,” *The Robot Report*, July 2026. [https://www.therobotreport.com/2026/07/f712-visual-slam-amr-studio/](https://www.therobotreport.com/2026/07/f712-visual-slam-amr-studio/)
