Even the online commerce giant Amazon is experimenting with new frontiers in the field of robotics. The latest initiative sees the introduction of humanoid robots in logistics centers, a step that could redefine the future of work in these environments. Specifically the company showed preview Digit, the "all-rounder" robot, which for the moment only does a couple of things lighten the human load.
With the Digit robot, Amazon opens a new chapter in logistics
Amazon, known for its continuous innovation, has begun testing humanoid robots in its American logistics centers. The protagonist of this new adventure is Digit, a robot described as a handyman, whose main task is to lighten the workload of employees, not to replace them.
Until now, Amazon had entrusted the movement of goods in its warehouses to specialized mechanical robots. But with the introduction of Digit, the company is raising the bar on automation. Unlike previous robots, Digit possesses a full human form with two arms, two legs and a head, which allow greater adaptability in the work environment.
Currently in the testing phase, Digit represents a bet for the future. With its ability to walk on two legs, to carry e to fill collection boxes, Amazon's humanoid robot tries to coexist with human employees. Initially, the robot is in charge of managing repetitive and monotonous tasks such as recycling collection boxes, thus providing a first glimpse into what collaboration between humans and robots could look like.
Digit is the result of the collaboration between Amazon and Agility Robotics, a company that Amazon invested in years ago. It's worth mentioning that too Xiaomi Cyber One, Boston Dynamics Atlas e Tesla's Optimus they were designed and produced with the same philosophy: to lighten man's workload.
There are also detractors
The introduction of Digit raises questions about the future of employment in Amazon's warehouses. While the company emphasizes that robotic innovation could create new jobs, especially in the field of maintenance, critics see this move as a step towards reducing dependence on human employees.
In essence, many are afraid that these robots will replace humans in jobs of this type. However, it is necessary to focus on some questions: first of all, who will do it maintenance of these robots if not man? Furthermore, i specialized jobs that a possible Digit can't do it, who will do it? In short, it is right that there are concerns but up to a certain point.
