automation

Consumer Reports ranked the 8 best smart thermostats for 2026. These devices have functions that allow them to learn routines or accommodate manual adjustments from the owner. Consumer Reports tested eight models specifically to determine which offered the most automated options.

Humanoid robots, once a science fiction concept, are now a major focus in Silicon Valley. McKinsey estimates automation could transform up to 30% of US work hours by 2030, with companies developing robots for human interaction and daily tasks.

Norbert Wiener, founder of cybernetics, may be considered a co-founder of modern AI alongside Alan Turing and John von Neumann. The article highlights his warnings against the automation of society.

Crypto exchange Luno reduced its global staff by 20% due to automation. CEO James Lanigan stated automation is transforming the business, shifting focus from retail trading to institutional infrastructure.

The article discusses how past automation caused economic inequality and weakened democracy, but generative AI could avoid these issues if developed to enhance workers rather than replace them. It introduces 'pro-worker AI' as a solution to restore the link between productivity and job quality by augmenting human capabilities with tools like specialized AI for electricians.

South Africa's mining sector is falling behind in the global technology race as digitisation, automation, and AI become standard, with the country lagging particularly in domestic research and development.

The Port of Shanghai aims to enhance its shipping-services sector using technology like artificial intelligence and automation, challenging hubs in Hong Kong, Singapore, and London as part of a five-year plan.

AI and automation are transforming the maritime workforce in India as the country aims to become a global shipping hub. Maritime University officials highlight that changing technologies and green shipping initiatives are redefining career opportunities in the sector.

McKinsey's analysis suggests Chile could gain 2.0–2.5 percentage points of annual productivity growth by 2030 through automation and AI, potentially boosting GDP growth to 4–5 percent annually. The report highlights generative AI's role in task automation.

Options brokers with niche expertise are remaining relevant despite industry shifts toward automation and AI. Their specialized knowledge allows them to bypass trends that typically replace human roles with technology.

Big Tech companies are investing billions in AI data centers across the U.S., creating temporary blue-collar jobs while depleting local resources and risking job replacement through automation. These efforts primarily benefit a small group of tech executives.

A University of Manchester study warns that universities are not adequately preparing graduates for AI-driven workplaces, urging schools to shift focus from AI cheating concerns to equipping students for automation-shaped careers.

Sarah O’Connor's book 'We Are Not Machines' examines the impact of AI and automation on labor dignity and safety, drawing parallels to historical worker struggles. The review notes declining UK job vacancies and growing concerns about AI-driven employment disruptions.

INS Mahendragiri is set to join the Indian Navy, enhancing maritime combat capability. The ship features advanced stealth technology, reduced radar signature, improved survivability, and high automation.

McDonald's is introducing a new growth strategy called McDonald's > NEXT, focusing on menu innovation, restaurant design, and automation. The strategy was unveiled at the company's biennial Worldwide Convention as competition in the industry intensifies.

Frontline Robotics, a Ukrainian drone maker, uses manual assembly over automation to rapidly update its weaponry as the battlefield changes. The company makes frequent product changes to stay effective, arguing that excessive automation can hinder adaptability by 'freezing' product versions.

Artificial intelligence is accelerating the adoption of automation in China's factories, expanding into new sectors and traditional industries.

The article questions whether automation is distorting the historical record of scientific research. It is authored by Kathryn Palmer and raises concerns about the impact of automation on research documentation.

Ford implemented AI automation and replaced human workers, but the initiative failed significantly. The article highlights the negative consequences of this decision, though specific details about the failure are not provided in the content.

Shenzhen is expanding driverless vehicles as part of a growing automation drive. This shift threatens gig economy workers, particularly drivers.

Nineteen states raised the minimum wage on Jan. 1, with some reaching $15/hour while 20 states remain at $7.25. Economists Heather Long and Scott Beaulier highlight both benefits for workers and risks of automation and job loss if wages rise too sharply. Housing costs, up 50% in five years, are a key factor in the debate.

The article argues that the current industrial revolution, particularly in AI, differs significantly from previous ones. It highlights that policymakers' existing strategies for automation are inadequate for addressing AI's challenges.

Meta is developing an AI version of its CEO, which raises questions about management, trust, and the automation of executive roles.

The article discusses the balance between automation and autonomy in battlefield drones, emphasizing that humans must remain involved in kinetic decisions while autonomous capabilities enhance military effectiveness. Autonomous drones are described as a 'force multiplier' despite the need for human oversight.

Gen Z prioritizes financial security over traditional workplace social events, showing proactive behavior like tracking expenses and valuing 401(k)s as status symbols. Despite efforts, many feel financially insecure, with low participation in workplace retirement plans. Employers can help by simplifying enrollment, automating savings, and providing financial education to build confidence and retention.

Andrew Yang's 2020 presidential campaign warned about automation and AI disrupting labor markets and concentrating wealth. His ideas, once considered fringe, are now echoed by Dario Amodei, Sam Altman, and Bernie Sanders. Yang, an entrepreneur, is focusing on building solutions rather than waiting for government action.

The article examines the Modern Productivity Paradox, analyzing how automation, particularly computers, impacts productivity. It was published in 1989 and discusses economic implications of technological advancements.

Felipe Chavez, CEO of Robot.com, aims to automate repetitive and mundane tasks using robots to reduce human labor in areas like delivery, warehouses, and food service. The company has deployed over 500 robots, primarily for delivery, and plans to expand into other sectors. Chavez envisions robots handling specific tasks to allow humans to focus on meaningful activities.

Liz Kendall, the technology secretary, stated that Labour will ensure artificial intelligence benefits workers rather than displacing them. The announcement addresses public concerns about job losses due to automation.

Liz Kendall, the technology secretary, stated Labour will ensure artificial intelligence benefits workers rather than displacing them. She emphasized the government's role in shaping AI adoption to support those affected by automation.

McDonald’s has introduced a new corporate strategy called 'McDonald’s>NEXT' aimed at simplifying store operations through increased automation, enhanced hospitality standards, social media-driven marketing, and improved food quality for sandwiches and fries.

A webinar titled 'From alert to resolution in network incident response' will discuss how automation and AI-assisted workflows can help IT teams accelerate incident response. The article highlights that while network incidents are often detected quickly, investigations and coordination delays hinder resolution.

Hyundai Motor Group plans to deploy over 25,000 Boston Dynamics Atlas robots in U.S. manufacturing facilities starting in 2028, with Kia's Georgia plant following in 2029. The robots, designed to perform physically demanding tasks and adapt to dynamic factory conditions, aim to address labor shortages and enhance production flexibility.

The article discusses how many organizations face delays in resolving network incidents due to slow investigations and coordination. It highlights a webinar exploring the use of automation and AI-assisted workflows to help IT teams reduce response times.

Robinhood is testing AI agents designed to trade stocks and make purchases for users. The initiative has sparked debates about trust and the implications of automation in financial decision-making.

The OpenAI Foundation has pledged $250 million to address economic disruptions caused by AI through research, worker support programs, and models for sharing automation benefits.

The webinar addresses how IT teams face delays in network incident response due to excessive tool-switching, and highlights automation and AI-assisted workflows as solutions to streamline processes and reduce manual coordination.

The article introduces a quiz designed to assess whether AI might replace certain jobs, highlighting the uncertainty of which careers will be impacted or survive automation. It emphasizes the interactive nature of the quiz to determine individual outcomes.

The article discusses how companies can be conceptualized as interconnected graphs of algorithms and systems, emphasizing the role of data flow, automation, and algorithmic decision-making in modern business operations.

RaDonda Vaught was convicted of negligent homicide after dispensing the wrong drug to a patient, leading to their death. She now advocates as a national speaker on hospital safety, focusing on challenges in automation and artificial intelligence.