The power of patents: driving innovation and a sustainable future
As we celebrate World Intellectual Property (IP) Day, we recognize the relentless efforts of our inventors and innovators who push the boundaries of technology.
Web Story
5min
2025-04-24
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For 25 years, World Intellectual Property (IP) Day has recognized the importance of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property in shaping our world.02
This year we advanced technologies to help industries navigate change with smarter and more sustainable operations.03
Our commitment to technological advancements is evident in our 6,000+ inventors and 28,000+ patent assets cementing our position as a leader in industrial innovation.Why Intellectual Property matters
Innovation is the foundation of our success. Patents, trademarks, and copyrights are essential in protecting groundbreaking ideas, ensuring companies can continue to invest in cutting-edge research. Our intellectual property portfolio safeguards our R&D investments, fosters competitive advantage, and accelerates the development of sustainable, energy-efficient solutions.
In the latest European Patent Office Technology Dashboard, we were ranked as the third top Swiss company for patent applications in 2025 and 45th globally. The EPO ranking is a benchmark of real innovation output.
In 2025 we were also recognized as one of the Top 100 Global Innovators 2026 by Clarivate for Intellectual Property.
OUR 2025 INNOVATION HIGHLIGHTS
$1.3 billion
<p>R&D investment</p>4.0%
<p>R&D as % of revenues invested in 2025</p>>30
<p>countries with local R&D facilities</p>~7,800
<p>R&D employees</p>~50%
<p>of R&D employees focused on digital and software development</p>Investing in the future of technology
Technology and innovation are essential to our long‑term success. Since 2022, we have increased our absolute R&D investment by about 30 percent and in 2025 $1.3bn on R&D was invested. Around half of our global R&D workforce is now focused on software, AI, and digital, and we have a large and growing portfolio of AI-enabled solutions.
"ABB's position as technology leader is built on the ingenuity of inventors and the diligence of our IP professionals. These teams collaborate every day to ensure a healthy and business-relevant IP culture at ABB."
- Mathias Gaertner, ABB General Counsel and Company Secretary
Breakthrough innovations shaping tomorrow
ABB’s latest technological advancements are redefining industry standards:
Genix Copilot
Developed in collaboration with Microsoft, this generative AI-powered assistant enhances asset performance management, helping industries optimize operations.
LV Titanium
ABB’s LV Titanium Variable Speed Motor (VSM) is a streamlined motor-drive solution designed to deliver outstanding energy efficiency and performance in modern industrial applications. Combining a compact design, built-in speed control, and efficiency levels up to IE5, the LV Titanium provides an Ultra-premium efficiency solution that helps customers reduce energy consumption, carbon emissions, and operational costs.
MegaFlex DPA UL
The MegaFlex DPA UPS system, now delivers from 1000 kW to 2000 kW of intelligent power protection for the world's most demanding data center environments. Optimized for colocation, hyperscale, and neocloud facilities, the MegaFlex DPA brings intelligent energy infrastructure to next-generation data centers.
Automation Extended
The evolution of ABB process automation systems into a future-ready, cyber-secure, and modular ecosystem.
These innovations are helping industries outrun, leaner and cleaner - through solutions that enable greater efficiency, resilience, and performance.
Recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization
Some of our innovations have been recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Green Technology Book. This book highlights over 200 innovative energy solutions aimed at addressing climate change by putting technology and innovation at the forefront. The 2024 edition focuses on rural and urban areas, hospitals, supermarkets, and data centers. Our SynRM motor, for the water utulities segment, is part of ABB’s EcoSolutions portfolio, emphasizing sustainability with third-party-verified environmental declarations. Our ACQ80 solar pump was also featured as it ensures efficient water management by seamlessly blending solar DC and grid AC inputs, even during low sunlight.
Shaping a more sustainable future
For us, innovation isn’t just about staying ahead in the market — it’s about creating solutions that address the world’s energy challenges, improve industrial efficiency, and contribute to a sustainable future. Our innovations and intellectual property are key differentiators. They enable us to create superior value for our customers by optimizing, electrifying and decarbonizing their operations.