Schneider Electric Launches Multi-Chemistry APC Smart-UPS

The redesigned UPS supports VRLA, lithium-ion and future battery chemistries while giving partners new infrastructure assessment and management opportunities.

Written By
Jordan Smith
Jordan Smith
Aug 13, 2026
2 minute read
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Schneider Electric has launched a new generation of its APC Smart-UPS designed to support multiple battery chemistries, giving channel partners a more flexible platform for helping customers modernize backup power across distributed IT and edge environments. 

Standardized platform across every battery type

The new Smart-UPS runs on valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) or lithium-ion batteries and supports future battery chemistries. This allows customers to upgrade the battery without buying a new UPS.

This new multi-chemistry Smart-UPS helps prevent downtime by supporting evolving battery technologies without requiring organizations to replace the entire UPS.

Further, the Smart-UPS delivers more power and runtime without sacrificing valuable rack space.

It provides up to three times the base runtime, up to 1.4x more power density, and up to 57% more outlets – while helping reduce power loss by up to 40% – compared to previous models.

VRLA batteries offered as cost-effective power option

Customers can deploy VRLA batteries now as a cost-effective option, moving to longer-lasting lithium-ion when ready. They can then adapt to new battery chemistries as Schneider Electric introduces compatible battery packs within the same chassis.

“Customers shouldn’t have to choose between investing in backup power today and being ready for what comes next,” said Manish Kumar, Executive Vice President, Secure Power and Data Centers, Schneider Electric. “With our first multi-chemistry Smart-UPS, a system purchased today can adapt to tomorrow’s battery innovations by swapping the battery, protecting our customers’ investment and giving our partners a new way to deliver value.”

According to the organization, the platform supports up to 10 external battery packs for extended runtime.

APC batteries maximize UPS lifespan and performance, are tested thoroughly for compatibility, backed by warranty coverage, shipped factory fresh, with validated runtime data, and supported by authorized recycling programs.

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Offering a unified platform with a channel approach

The same interface, batteries, and spare parts are shared across kVA models, and EcoStruxure IT software provides visibility across all sites from one platform, UPS health and performance data, alerts that help prevent dead batteries, and insights into energy use.

With intuitive LCD screens and menus, training time can be reduced and rack/tower-convertible models can adapt to current and future configurations.

Further, an EcoStruxure IT Network Management Card provides a layer of cybersecurity protection certified to IEC 62443 Security Level 2.

PowerCute software, meanwhile, enables automated shutdown to protect data during outages.

Schneider Electric pairs the platform with a software-led channel approach offering a Power Infrastructure Assessment that maps the modernization path delivered by the new Smart-UPS and powered by EcoStruxure IT.

Jordan Smith

Jordan Smith is an enterprise technology and cybersecurity journalist with nearly a decade of experience covering B2B IT, federal technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and emerging digital trends. His reporting helps business and technology leaders understand how new technologies, security challenges, and infrastructure decisions affect modern organizations. Jordan has reported on enterprise and public-sector technology for TechnologyAdvice, HCLTech, MeriTalk, and Channel Insider. His background spans cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, AI adoption, digital transformation, and federal IT initiatives, giving him a broad perspective on the tools, policies, and innovations shaping today’s technology landscape. Before joining TechnologyAdvice, Jordan served as a Senior Technology Reporter at MeriTalk, where he covered the federal IT space, and later worked as a US Regional Reporter and Copy Editor/Writer for HCLTech. His experience across reporting, copyediting, podcasting, and event moderation allows him to translate complex technical topics into clear, timely, and useful insights for business audiences. Jordan holds a Master of Arts in Journalism from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Edgewood University. Through his work, he helps readers stay informed about cybersecurity developments, enterprise technology trends, and the business impact of emerging IT solutions.

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