Robots with Intelligence : The Threat

April 2, 2019

Faisal Athar

If you’ve viewed the web series ‘Ready for Retail Robots?’ on BBC Click (2019), then you’ll realise just how advanced the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning are within the retail industry. And that these AI robots aren’t here to threaten our existence.

But they are wiping out some of our jobs.

For instance, intelligent robots empower customers to make cashless purchase with the scan of an app or a QR code to automatically detect anything and everything within an Amazon Go Store basket or trolley.

Fully automated AI robots in the Amazon warehouse are able to scan packages and arrange them with precision for delivery, with minimal human assistance.

Walmart malls deployed AI robot janitors or automated cleaning vehicles, which avoid customers with the use of cameras, sensors, and lasers. They were also used around the store isles to check on stocks, price tags and other general items.

Elsewhere a team of researchers from Germany, the United States and France taught an AI system to help doctors detect skin cancer faster and more efficiently.

The system also helped dermatologists make better decisions on their diagnostics by providing a more accurate and sensitive data set. Leaving them room to explore other forms and aspects of work. Enabling a higher level of process with the use of AI and machines to further their scope of work. And go with the times by adapting to new technologies and workflows.

So the same goes to you who is worried about AI robots and their capabilities in denying livelihoods. It’s never too late to upscale your knowledge on how new types of applications and machines work, and use them to your advantage. One can find courses online to advance your skill set or invest in experimental technology to explore the potentials that are out there.

Or you may quicken the process by engaging the professional help of tech companies who are future-ready with tech-centric solutions. Utilising Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Virtual, Augmented, Mixed, or even Extended Reality, Blockchain, Analytics, and other technologies – for the betterment of industries, and the society in general.

Remember, AI robots aren’t here to break our rice bowl, but rather, fill it for us.