**[Meta Testing Robots to Maintain AI Data Centers, Potentially Replacing Some Technical Roles]** BlockBeats News, August 29 – Meta is testing robots to maintain data centers that support its artificial intelligence systems. Applications include replacing network cables, rebooting servers, transporting cabinets, and conducting equipment inspections. The robots currently being tested by Meta are from Watney Robotics, Kinova, and ABB. However, these robots still face challenges such as slow operation speeds, limited battery life, difficulties with visual detection, and struggles with dense cabling and complex obstacles, requiring human supervision and assistance. A Meta employee estimated that if cable-replacement robots become fully developed, up to 80% of certain job tasks could potentially be replaced by machines. This figure is a personal estimate by the employee and not an official prediction from Meta. As AI infrastructure continues to expand, Meta faces a shortage of technical personnel for its data centers while simultaneously exploring the use of robots to reduce operational costs. Meta stated that the U.S. is experiencing the largest infrastructure construction boom since World War II, leading to a severe shortage of skilled technical workers. Therefore, "we need more workers, not fewer." However, employees are concerned that robots might reduce the demand for experienced technical staff and shift remaining tasks to lower-paid workers who would execute instructions generated by AI. Currently, Meta's robots are unable to independently complete complex repairs, but their further development could redefine whether the expansion of AI data centers creates more jobs or accelerates the automation of technical roles. [Original Link]