In the 138th episode of The Robot Report Podcast, Marc Kermisch, the Global Chief Digital and Information Officer at CNH Industrial (CNHI), shares insights into the company’s advancements in agricultural autonomy and digitization. The conversation highlights how robotics and data analytics are revolutionizing farming by enhancing productivity and efficiency. Additionally, the episode covers the latest news from the robotics sector, including highlights from the 2024 CES show where various robotics and automation companies showcased their innovations.
Industry Dynamics and Layoffs
The robotics industry has experienced both growth and contraction. Locus Robotics recently announced a reduction in workforce, reflecting broader trends such as a decrease in North American robot orders and a 25% drop in warehouse construction. However, the demand for mobile robots has increased. Despite a few shutdowns, the Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) sector faces challenges, as evidenced by Shopify’s sale of 6 River Systems to Ocado at a loss. The podcast expresses solidarity with those laid off and points to resources for job seekers in the robotics field.
Humanoid Robots and AgTech Developments
Notable developments in humanoid robotics include BMW’s testing of a Figure 01 humanoid in South Carolina and Elon Musk’s statement on the impending arrival of 1 billion humanoids, with Tesla continuing to develop its Optimus model. In AgTech, farm-ng raised significant Series A funding to expand its Amiga robot and AI for smaller farms, while John Deere and SpaceX plan to bring satellite connectivity to farmers and their robotic aids.
A study from MIT CSAIL and other institutions provides a nuanced view of AI’s impact on employment, suggesting that job automation will occur gradually. It reveals that a relatively small percentage of tasks are economically viable for AI automation and posits that as costs for AI systems decrease, adoption may accelerate. This could lead to both job displacement and the creation of new roles related to AI system management and maintenance.
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