automation

Major corporations are announcing AI-driven layoffs, but critics argue AI is a convenient scapegoat for downsizing due to broader economic pressures. Examples include Accenture, Lufthansa, Salesforce and Klarna integrating AI to enhance efficiency. Some experts suggest companies are using AI to mask other strategic imperatives, while others find little evidence of widespread job losses due to AI, citing pandemic-era overhiring as a factor. Concerns are raised about transparency and the need for companies to address employee anxieties surrounding AI.

DXC Technology launches DXC Assure Smart Apps, an AI-powered suite to modernize insurance operations and enhance decision-making. Utilizing Amazon Web Services and the DXC Assure Platform, the apps integrate seamlessly with existing systems, offering self-service capabilities, AI-driven customer support, and intelligent insights. Built with DXC’s Assure BPM and enhanced by ServiceNow, the Smart Apps promise scalable workflows and rapid deployment, aiming for an 80% reduction in process design time, enabling insurers to innovate without disrupting existing investments.

A recent survey of UK CFOs reveals that 99% have experienced payment-related cyber incidents in the past two years, making cybersecurity their top operational risk. While 94% plan to increase cybersecurity spending and universally desire automation, particularly in Accounts Payable, integration challenges with legacy systems hinder progress. Only 64% are confident in their systems’ ability to provide essential real-time oversight, highlighting the urgent need for modern, unified solutions to combat cyber threats and improve efficiency.

SoftBank Group will acquire ABB’s robotics division for $5.4 billion, abandoning ABB’s spin-off plan. SoftBank aims to fuse AI and robotics, driving a new era of “Physical AI.” The acquisition strengthens SoftBank’s AI portfolio, including Arm and OpenAI, and expands its robotics capabilities alongside investments like AutoStore and Agile Robots. ABB will use the proceeds from the sale to invest in its electrification and automation businesses. The deal is seen as beneficial for both companies.

Agentic AI promises to unlock generative AI’s potential, addressing the current disconnect between adoption and bottom-line impact. AI agent orchestration is emerging as crucial, with platforms like BMC’s Control-M evolving to manage autonomous agent deployments across diverse systems. BMC envisions Control-M as an “orchestrator of orchestrators,” connecting various tools and facilitating AI agent coordination. As companies like Salesforce develop “digital labor platforms,” demand for robust orchestration layers is growing. Effective orchestration is vital for operationalizing AI, mitigating risks, and ensuring compliance, thereby maximizing business outcomes and ROI.

An ISG report reveals a dynamic shift in French cybersecurity due to rising AI threats and stricter regulations. French enterprises are increasing security budgets and seeking expert guidance for modern security challenges, moving towards comprehensive, integrated solutions like SASE. Driven by compliance burdens from EU regulations like NIS2 and the AI Act affecting over 15,000 French firms, companies are adopting AI-driven threat detection and automation via managed services to address skill shortages and proactively defend against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.

Humanoid robots, driven by AI and robotics advancements, are generating excitement, with some suggesting a “ChatGPT moment” is imminent. Companies like Tesla and emerging Chinese startups are developing robots for manufacturing, logistics, and other sectors. While experts anticipate significant global economic impact, widespread adoption faces technological, manufacturing, and regulatory hurdles. Ethical considerations and clear operational guidelines are also critical. Analysts predict increasing robot shipments, but a gradual integration into various sectors is expected.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff revealed that the company has reduced its customer support staff by approximately 4,000 positions due to the increased efficiencies of AI, specifically its “Agentforce” suite. Benioff stated AI now handles a significant workload. While Salesforce cites increased efficiency, analysts like Ed Zitron suggest AI is being used as a scapegoat for past over-hiring, prioritizing growth over employee well-being. HR consultant Laurie Ruettimann urges workers to acquire new skills in response to AI’s widespread impact.

Agentic AI, software that autonomously decides, acts, and refines strategy, is poised to disrupt industries. Capgemini projects $450 billion in potential economic value by 2028, yet only 2% of organizations have scaled its use. A survey of 1,500 executives highlights the importance of human oversight, with most believing in the value of human involvement in AI workflows. IT operations are emerging as a practical entry point, with measurable benefits in data classification, storage optimization, and cybersecurity. Success hinges on data quality, new skills, and striking a balance between autonomy and accountability.

At the 2025 World Robot Conference, Unitree Robotics founder Wang Xingxing discussed the potential for taxing robots as they enter the workforce. He suggested taxing robots based on their generated value, even proposing their use in undeveloped land with output shared with the state, contingent on advanced capabilities. He also addressed price differences in Unitree’s robot models, stating that smaller, less sophisticated robots would be more affordable, aiming for wider adoption through tiered pricing strategy.