Amazon recently released a video of a pinch-grasping robot to be used for e-commerce purposes. The video comes just three years after Jeff Bezos predicted that, within a decade, robotic systems will be advanced enough so that robots will be able to grasp items with the dexterity of a human hand. While advances still need to be made, the new video questions whether robots will someday replace Amazon’s human workforce.
The story about the new pinch-grasping robots appeared on the Vox website. The story posted on the website also mentions that according to one research study, Amazon could run out of workers to hire in the U.S. by 2024. The article also discusses the reality that the company is seeing increasing calls for unionization in its facilities.
Given union talks and a possible shortage of workers, it’s definitely a possibility that Amazon could turn to robots to replace or support human workers. When discussing its robotic operations, a spokesman from Amazon did not speak directly on the issue. Rather, Director of Robotics AI, Siddhartha Srinivasa, said: “[W]e have an incredible opportunity to help advance the science of robotic manipulation in ways that meaningfully benefit our employees and our customers. Our investments in robotics and technology are helping make jobs in our facilities better, easier, and safer, as well as creating new career opportunities for our people.”
It seems that the issue here is not “will” Amazon create a single robot that can handle its products, but “when. Once “when” becomes “now,” then we will finally get the answer as to whether robotic technologies will eliminate the need for human workers. It does seem plausible that Amazon could rely on such technologies if it ultimately does run out of new workers and existing workers unionize. Since we don’t hold a crystal ball, we’re going to have to keep watching updates to see how all of this unravels. We’ll keep you posted.
Brand Focus Digital helps manufacturers sell their products easier and more efficiently on Amazon and other online retailers - in North America and across the globe. We work tirelessly and diligently with the makers of (and not limited to):
BFD’s talent has decades of experience working at Amazon as well as other online retailers. In partnership, we deliver comprehensive solutions to maximize profits for your brands. Contact us now to get the help that truly makes a difference.
P.O. Box 10743
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
206-420-8068
info@brandfocusdigital.com