Exciting news for fans of automation and technology: Amazon recently deployed its millionth robot (via TechCrunch). This milestone is significant as it suggests that the tech giant is on a trajectory to operate more robots than human workers, with a reported 1.56 million human employees according to the Wall Street Journal.

The deployment of bots began around 13 years ago, leading to the installation of the millionth robot in an Amazon warehouse located in Japan. This achievement strengthens Amazon’s claim to be the largest manufacturer and operator of mobile robotics worldwide.

Amazon is also honing its robotic capabilities with a new AI foundation model called DeepFleet, which is designed to improve efficiency and delivery times for its robotic fleet by 10%. The implementation of such technology means 75% of Amazon’s deliveries now involve robots. One of their latest models, the robot named Vulcan, has advanced features including suction cups, cameras, and a sense of touch, raising intriguing questions about the evolving role of robotics in logistics.

Furthermore, reports indicate that some roles being phased out may be replaced with more fulfilling positions, as highlighted by former warehouse worker Neisha Cruz, who transitioned into a supervisory position earning significantly more than she did previously.

The overall increase in productivity is undeniable, with Amazon reportedly shipping around six billion packages per year, up from just 175 packages per employee annually in 2015. All these developments prompt a reflective look at both the benefits and potential downsides of robotics in the workplace.