Meta tests robots for data center work

Meta is testing robots to maintain data centers that power its artificial intelligence systems. The robots can replace networking cables, restart servers, inspect equipment, and move server racks. A Friday WIRED report identified robots from Watney Robotics, Kinova, and ABB. The report said the robots could reduce labor costs and potentially staffing as Meta expands its artificial intelligence infrastructure. An unnamed employee estimated that a successful cable-swapping robot could replace as much as 80% of the work in certain roles. The estimate came from the employee and was not a Meta projection. The robot cannot yet match a person's speed. The machines still need human supervision. The machines struggle with obstacles, battery life, visual inspections, and dense cabling. Alibaba unveiled its Qwen-Robot Suite in June. The suite includes models for navigation, object handling, and physical simulation. Nvidia researchers introduced artificial intelligence agents that train robot fleets. Limited real-world data remains a barrier to deploying robots on warehouse floors. ACE Robotics Chairman Wang Xiaogang said embodied artificial intelligence could have a "ChatGPT moment" by the end of 2027. Bedrock Robotics has deployed autonomous construction equipment. Mercedes-Benz has tested humanoid robots for repetitive factory work. Developers cite labor shortages and worker safety as reasons for using robots. Critics warn that automation could eliminate jobs. Workers told WIRED that automation may reduce demand for experienced technicians. Workers also said automation may shift remaining tasks to lower-paid employees who follow artificial intelligence-generated instructions. A Meta spokesperson said the company continues to hire and train workers amid a skilled-labor shortage. The spokesperson reportedly said the United States needs more workers, not fewer, during an infrastructure boom and skilled-worker shortage. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang envisions data centers operated by people, software agents, and robots. Huang and robotics developers argue that machines can fill labor shortages and handle repetitive or dangerous work. Bill Gates proposed taxing robots and artificial intelligence tokens on Wednesday. Gates argued that current tax rules can make machines cheaper than employees. Meta's robots still need people to supervise them and perform difficult repairs.