Siemens has expanded the capabilities of its Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering (LCE) platform, introducing new features that make Software-Defined Automation more accessible to a wider range of industrial users. The latest updates include the addition of graphical ladder programming and compatibility with the Simatic S7-1200 G2 controller, extending the platform’s reach from advanced automation projects to cost-sensitive applications.
The latest enhancements are designed to bridge the gap between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), enabling engineers, maintenance teams and service personnel to adopt modern software development practices while continuing to use familiar automation workflows. The expanded functionality is expected to improve collaboration, simplify engineering processes and accelerate automation project execution.
A key addition to the platform is XLad, the first graphical programming language integrated into Simatic AX. The ladder logic environment allows users to create and edit automation programs through a visual interface while retaining the flexibility to switch seamlessly to a text-based coding environment. This bidirectional programming capability enables engineering teams to work in the format best suited to their expertise and project requirements.
The text-based representation generated by XLad is designed to be both easy for engineers to interpret and compatible with future artificial intelligence applications. It also supports version management through Git, making software development, change tracking and collaborative engineering significantly more efficient.
Siemens has also expanded the hardware compatibility of Simatic AX by adding support for the Simatic S7-1200 G2 programmable logic controller. Previously focused on the Simatic S7-1500 family, the platform can now be deployed for a broader range of automation projects, including entry-level and basic industrial applications where affordability and engineering efficiency are key priorities.
By combining IT-inspired software engineering practices with familiar automation programming, Siemens aims to help manufacturers modernize engineering workflows while reducing development time and improving software quality. The enhancements also lay the foundation for future AI-assisted programming and intelligent automation development.
The company is showcasing these innovations at the Automate exhibition in Chicago, where it is demonstrating how Software-Defined Automation can simplify engineering, improve scalability and support digital transformation across manufacturing industries.
Siemens continues to strengthen its Digital Industries portfolio by delivering automation technologies that integrate software, hardware and digital engineering. The latest Simatic AX enhancements reinforce the company’s commitment to enabling manufacturers of all sizes to adopt flexible, software-centric automation solutions that improve productivity, streamline operations and support the next generation of industrial innovation.
