Tech Report: GM cuts jobs as robots expand role in manufacturing
General Motors has scaled back its electric vehicle ambitions and eliminated more than 1,000 jobs at its Factory Zero assembly plant in Detroit.
(LILAMAX)- General Motors has scaled back its electric vehicle ambitions and eliminated more than 1,000 jobs at its Factory Zero assembly plant in Detroit, replacing many of those positions with automated systems.
The automaker has installed about 50 collaborative robots, known as “cobots,” at the facility as demand for electric vehicles slows and the company looks to reduce costs. The robots now work alongside remaining employees on the assembly line, assisting with vehicle body panel installation.
The move has drawn criticism from labor unions concerned about the growing role of automation in manufacturing.
Meanwhile, a new survey suggests many companies are struggling to manage the risks associated with artificial intelligence.
Research from Kore.ai found that nearly three-quarters of IT leaders believe their AI agents create unmanaged financial or compliance risks. The survey also found that 42% of respondents reported lost revenue tied to AI agent failures.
Kore.ai says companies should build stronger oversight and governance into AI systems from the beginning to reduce those risks.
In retail, early discounts are already appearing ahead of Amazon’s Prime Day sales event.
Shoppers can find deals on technology products including Apple Watches and iRobot robotic vacuums, along with clothing, fans and other household items before the official event begins.
Microsoft is also warning customers about an upcoming software deadline.
The company announced it will end support for Office 2021 applications, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, on Oct. 13, 2026.
While the software is expected to continue functioning after that date, Microsoft warns users who continue using unsupported versions could face serious security risks without future updates or patches.
