Meta is testing robotic assistants in its data centers, with bots designed to plug in cables, reset servers and handle other tasks. These experiments could lead to a future where fewer humans are needed to operate vast data center infrastructures.

The tech giant is using robots from various vendors, including Watney Robotics, Kinova and ABB. In one trial, a Kinova Gen3 arm is being tested for server power cycling and cable swapping. Workers estimate that if successful, these robots could replace up to 80% of some employees' tasks, leading to the somewhat grim observation that 'We thought those of us performing the physical tasks were safe for a while, but not anymore.'

At other facilities, a simpler robot resembling a finger is being used to remotely restart devices. Despite these advancements, Meta remains committed to hiring more skilled workers, with spokesperson Francis Brennan stating that America is experiencing a major shortage of workers for data center roles.

Despite this, the push towards automation could transform the job market, prompting concerns about the future of human labour in the tech industry.