25.04.201703:07:00UTC+00ABB, IBM Form Partnership on Artificial Intelligence

ABB has collaborated with IBM, seeking to shore up its endeavors to widen its presence in the internet of things and the digital technology arena.

The Swiss company unveiled its partnership Tuesday, with Chief Executive Ulrich Spiesshofer saying the recent development signifies the next phase of industrial technology, moving past current connected schemes which merely collate data.

Under the deal, ABB would integrate its digital offerings into IBM's AI expertise seen in its Watson data analytics program. The two entities will jointly curate and sell new products.

The Swiss firm recognized digital innovation as a driver of expansion. As of present, about 55% of sales from products are digitally activated.