As data center costs rise, Meta is using robots to plug cables & reset servers
Meta is reportedly testing robots for physical tasks within its data centers. These robots could potentially handle cable plugging and server resets, among other duties. The company is evaluating robotic arms for power cycling and cable swapping operations. This initiative aims to reduce labor costs as AI infrastructure spending increases. Meta spokesperson Francis Brennan stated the company is…
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is reportedly testing robots to assist in various physical tasks within its data centers, according to a report citing multiple sources. The social media giant is experimenting with robots from different vendors, including Watney Robotics, Kinova, and ABB, to plug cables, reset servers, and perform other tasks.
While Meta and the robotics suppliers have not officially confirmed the use of these robots, the potential benefits are significant. By using robots, Meta could eventually reduce the number of human workers needed in its rapidly expanding data centers, helping to keep labor costs down even as the company spends more on AI infrastructure.
One Meta worker estimates that if the testing efforts succeed, the robots could handle up to 80% of some employees' workloads. However, Meta's spokesperson has stated that the company is investing heavily in hiring and training workers to build and operate its data centers, emphasizing that there is still a shortage of skilled workers in the industry.
Despite this, concerns remain that automation could eventually replace some jobs or reduce the need for highly skilled employees.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
