AI could make many jobs disappear forever, Bill Gates warns

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has warned that the rapid development of artificial intelligence could lead to widespread job losses and deepening inequality. In a 6,000-word essay, "The turbulent AI era is here," Gates argued that governments are not adequately preparing for the disruption. He identified entry- and mid-level jobs as particularly vulnerable, while the new AI-created positions would likely require skills that take years to acquire.

Gates predicted that AI and robotics could lead to the replacement of blue-collar workers by the end of the decade. He warned that the combination of AI and robotics could accelerate job displacement and benefit only a small group. Gates also expressed concern about AI's potential to cause harm, including cyberattacks, fraud, disinformation, deepfakes, surveillance, and bioterrorism.

He proposed the concept of "Human Reserved" jobs and suggested implementing a robot tax to manage AI disruption. Gates emphasized the need for societies to rethink employment, income, and economic security in an era where AI may replace many human workers.