Imagine a future where half a million jobs vanish, replaced by machines. That's the reality Amazon is reportedly preparing for, according to a recent New York Times exposé. But here's where it gets controversial: while the e-commerce giant aims to automate 75% of its operations, slashing labor costs by 30 cents (Rs 26) per item, it's also strategizing to soften the inevitable public backlash.
The Times, citing internal documents, reveals that Amazon's robotics team envisions warehouses with minimal human presence. By 2027, the company could avoid hiring over 160,000 workers in the U.S. alone, and by 2033, that number jumps to a staggering 600,000—even as sales are projected to double. Currently, Amazon employs around 1.2 million people, making this shift potentially seismic.
And this is the part most people miss: Amazon isn’t just automating; it’s rebranding the narrative. Instead of using terms like “automation” or “robots,” the documents suggest phrases like “advanced technology” and “cobots” (collaborative robots working alongside humans). The company is also reportedly planning to polish its image as a “good corporate citizen” by increasing its involvement in community events.
Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel told the Times that these documents represent the perspective of just one internal group. She also highlighted Amazon’s plan to hire 250,000 workers for the upcoming holiday season, though it remains unclear whether these positions will be permanent or contractual.
This isn’t Amazon’s first foray into robotic automation. In 2012, the company acquired robotics maker Kiva for $775 million, marking its initial push into this space. Last year, Amazon unveiled its most advanced warehouse yet, where 1,000 robots handle packages with virtually no human intervention.
Here’s the question that sparks debate: Is Amazon’s automation a necessary step toward efficiency and innovation, or does it signal a troubling trend of prioritizing profits over people? As the company navigates this delicate balance, one thing is clear: the future of work is changing—and not everyone will be ready for it. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
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