Amazon is reportedly testing a humanoid robot called Digit in its e-commerce warehouses, and this automation initiative has raised concerns about job losses. Digit is equipped with arms and legs, allowing it to perform tasks such as moving, carrying, and handling objects in a manner similar to a human worker.
Some critics, like Stuart Richards of the UK trade union GMB, have expressed concerns about the impact of Amazon’s automation on employment. They claim that Amazon’s automation efforts have already led to the disappearance of hundreds of jobs in their fulfillment centers.
Amazon, on the other hand, defends its move by stating that it aims to “free employees up to better deliver for our customers.” The company also argues that its robotic systems have contributed to creating “hundreds of thousands of new employment opportunities” across various categories, including skilled roles that were previously nonexistent within the organization. This includes the addition of 700 jobs.
Amazon already employs over 750,000 robots that work collaboratively with human staff to handle highly repetitive tasks. These robots are integral to the company’s vast operational framework.
Digit, the humanoid robot in question, is designed to walk on two legs and has the ability to pick up, transport, and manipulate packages, containers, customer orders, and various objects within the warehouse setting. Amazon’s adoption of such advanced automation technology reflects its commitment to optimizing operational efficiency and meeting the growing demands of its customer base.
