The news of mass layoffs at a company that also recently shut down its robot unit has become all too common today. While layoffs are certainly unfortunate, the decision to abort a robot unit that was supposed to research and develop robots that can open doors and clean tables is even more concerning.

The rapid influx of technology into the labor force has had a significant impact on our economy and the job market. In many industries, automated machines are replacing human labor, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for regular people to compete with the cost efficiency of machines.

The decision to shut down the robot unit that was working on robots that can open doors and clean tables should tell us something about the present state of technological advancement in robotics. As robots are becoming more and more advanced, it’s very possible that many more skilled labor jobs will soon become automated.

This could have profound impacts on the job market and our economy as a whole. If robotic advancements continue, it’s possible that more and more people may be replaced by machines and robots. This could create a large pool of un- and under-employed individuals, and even further exacerbate inequality, as those with specialized knowledge or skills continue to keep jobs and remain in demand.

We must be aware of these advances in robotics, and the potential they have to effect our economy and the job market. Companies must balance the cost savings and efficiency of automated processes with the need to protect the livelihoods of the humans they employ, while governments work to determine how to maintain job growth, economic stability, and equality.