Big tech companies like Amazon.com, Microsoft Corporation, Alphabet Inc., and Shopify Inc. are adopting AI tools to transform coding practices. However, this shift may have unintended consequences.
Amazon software developers reported feeling pressured to use AI tools to meet higher output goals despite smaller team sizes and tighter deadlines. The company stated it evaluates team staffing levels and may scale up as needed. CEO Andy Jassy emphasized the productivity gains offered by generative AI in a shareholder letter.
Other companies are also embracing AI usage. Shopify Inc.’s CEO Tobi Lütke said “AI usage is now a baseline expectation” for employees, while Alphabet’s Google will hold a companywide hackathon to encourage AI development. Over 30% of Google’s code is now suggested by AI and accepted by developers.
Microsoft’s AI coding assistant, Copilot, has been found to increase output by more than 25%. However, workers are concerned that the pace and pressure from AI tools mirror factory or warehouse environments, potentially harming junior developers who spend less time thinking deeply about problems and more time accepting AI-generated code.
A 2024 PwC survey found that 84% of CEOs who have implemented AI report a boost in employee productivity. Nevertheless, there is a growing sense among workers that employers are piling on more tasks, reducing the autonomy to think creatively.
Source: https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45603978/as-amazon-microsoft-google-and-shopify-race-to-integrate-ai-engineers-say-theyre-working-faster-with-less-thinking-time-and-more-pressure-than-ever