An analysis published by the Financial Times argues that the greatest potential of Artificial Intelligence lies not in chatbots, but in physical robots operating in the real world, particularly in the manufacturing industry. According to the article, while language models like ChatGPT have transformed the way we process information and communicate, “physical AI” – robots equipped with cameras, sensors and advanced learning systems – could bring the greatest economic impact.
These systems, known as “world models,” enable machines to understand and interact with the physical environment, performing complex tasks in factories, warehouses, and production lines.
Experts point out that the greatest productivity gains are expected in the industrial sector, where robots can reduce errors, shorten production times and adapt to different work processes. Examples from companies such as Foxconn and Amazon show significant improvements in efficiency thanks to robots equipped with artificial intelligence. Another important advantage is addressing labor shortages in developed economies, where industry often faces recruitment difficulties. Intelligent robots can replace some physical processes and at the same time create new supervisory and technical roles.
The article also highlights that the use of “physical AI” can help strengthen supply chains and increase domestic production, making the economy more sustainable and less dependent on imports.
However, experts warn that the transition to this technology requires huge investments, further development of intelligence systems and reorganization of factories. According to the analysis, while chatbots have shown the power of artificial intelligence in processing information, its economic future may be determined by how this intelligence will be “materialized” in robots that produce, build and operate in the real world.