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The robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) spaces are experiencing rapid advancements, transforming industries and daily life in astonishing ways. As we make our way through 2024, two key trends are becoming the hot topic on the public’s mind: AI-powered robots and Cobots (yes, the robots that work alongside our human coworkers). Let’s take a brief look at these two fascinating (slightly off-putting) trends.
AI-Powered Robotics
AI-powered robotics is a crucial trend, where robots are becoming “smarter” and more autonomous. By leveraging machine learning (ML), robots can now perform complicated tasks with extraordinary accuracy. Industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics are benefiting from robots that can adapt to new tasks and conditions without the need for human involvement. Forbes highlights that while there are plenty of robotics currently performing their functions without the use of AI, “Robotics will continue to grow in areas with a large number of repetitive operations…[and] at some point in the coming years, the machines will communicate with one another and with the company’s data system.”
Collaborative Robots (Cobots)
Collaborative robots, or cobots, are designed to work alongside humans. Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots are built to be safe and user-friendly, making them suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They assist with tasks like assembly, packaging, and quality control. They aim to enhance output while reducing the physical strain on human workers. Keypoint Intelligence has recently published a report titled AI and Robotics in Printing: Revolutionizing the Industry, detailing the various types of cobots currently circulating the market (some still in production phases) and their capabilities. If you’d like to learn more about this, check out the report here.
Points to Remember
As AI systems become more commonplace, ethical considerations and AI/robotic governance are getting a very bright spotlight shone on them. Making sure that AI is developed and used responsibly involves addressing issues like safety, privacy, liability—even biases. An article from the Berkman Klein Center poses the question, “How do we harness the potential of AI systems while ensuring that they do not exacerbate existing inequalities and biases, or even create new ones?” Policymakers and industry leaders must keep a keen eye on this issue and ensure frameworks to guide the ethical use of AI technologies, especially when put side by side with human workers.
Keypoint Intelligence Opinion
These exciting trends are creating a technological transformation that is sure to reshape various aspects of our lives. From smarter robots to robotic coworkers, these advancements are paving the way for a future where technology can easily integrate with human beings. But with the goal of increasing efficiency, safety, and quality of life also comes the responsibility of ensuring that this integration is done correctly, carefully, and justly. By staying informed about these trends, we can better understand and prepare for the transformative possibilities of robotics and AI within our lives. Let’s prepare ourselves for the exciting (if a little terrifying) developments that are on the horizon.
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