Meta Tests Robots for Tasks in Data Centers

Meta is testing robots capable of plugging in cables, resetting servers, and performing other tasks within its data centers, according to several current and former employees familiar with the projects. This ongoing effort, which has not been previously reported, may enable Meta to manage its expanding data center operations with fewer human workers, potentially reducing labor costs as its investment in AI infrastructure increases. Meta is utilizing robots and related hardware from various vendors, including Watney Robotics, Kinova, and ABB, according to the same employees, who requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media. Kinova and ABB declined to comment, while Watney did not respond to requests for comment. In one experiment, Meta is assessing whether a Kinova Gen3 robotic arm could be employed for power cycling or disconnecting electricity from servers. The company is also testing another robot designed to swap networking cables. One Meta data center employee estimates that if successful, the robot could replace up to 80 percent of certain workers' tasks. The employee stated, 'We thought those of us performing the physical tasks were safe for a while, but not anymore. It’s coming for us all, unfortunately.'