New research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory challenges previous predictions, suggesting that the impact of artificial intelligence on employment and automation may be slower than expected. The study focuses on the field of visual analysis, such as quality inspection on production lines, and finds that while certain tasks can be automated using AI, the economic appeal of automation is relatively low. Taking the job of a baker as an example, the research reveals that the costs of deploying simple AI systems far exceed the actual wage savings achieved through automation, making the employment of humans still more economically viable.

IMF President Kristalina Georgieva stated that artificial intelligence will affect 60% of jobs in advanced economies. Older workers will be more susceptible to this transformation, with nearly 40% of global employment exposed to the risks of AI. While the impact of AI is smaller for emerging markets and developing countries, they may find it more difficult to benefit from new technologies, potentially exacerbating the digital divide and income inequality. The IMF emphasizes the importance of policies, especially to help low-income countries seize the opportunities presented by AI more rapidly.