Elon Musk is taking his predictions about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics on the workforce to the next level. In a recent interview, Musk stated that machines will soon handle most forms of labor, leaving humans to work only if they choose to.
According to Musk, rapid advances in AI systems and general-purpose robots will eventually cover all essential tasks, making human labor a choice rather than an economic requirement. “In less than 20 years, working will be optional,” he said.
Musk believes that people will still have the option to work if they enjoy it or need the routine, comparing it to home gardening. He acknowledged that his prediction might seem bold, but noted that the pace of advancements in AI and robotics makes it a likely scenario.
This idea is not new for Musk, who has previously stated that robots like Optimus could eliminate poverty and provide people with access to medical care worldwide.
Tesla’s progress with Optimus, its humanoid robot, is a significant step towards making this vision a reality. The robot has shown impressive capabilities, including taking a light jog with natural form movements.
However, there are still challenges ahead, such as perfecting the hand and finger movements of Optimus, which is crucial for its usefulness.
Musk’s comments echo his warning that legacy automakers are ignoring Tesla’s Full Self-Driving technology, despite it being the most robust and available. The reluctance to adopt this technology mirrors how companies initially dismissed electric vehicles, only to scramble later on.
The stakes are high as Tesla continues to innovate while legacy automakers lag behind. If Tesla succeeds in making work “optional,” it could revolutionize the way we think about employment and redefine what a car will be in the decades ahead.
Musk’s predictions highlight the rapid pace of technological advancements and their potential impact on society. As AI and robotics continue to advance, it is essential to consider how these changes will affect our workforce, economy, and daily lives.
Source: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-optimus-shows-off-its-newest-capability-progress-accelerates