Confidence in the potential of robotics has reached its highest point in two years, according to recent survey data, signaling a growing optimism in the industry. A report by GlobalData, based on their Q4 2024 Tech Sentiment Polls, found that 40% of respondents believe robotics will significantly disrupt their industries. This level of confidence hasn't been seen since early 2023 when the figure stood at 43%.
The survey, conducted across GlobalData’s network of B2B websites, tracked shifting perceptions around disruptive technologies. Over the past year, there’s been a noticeable shift from lukewarm responses like “no disruption” or “slight disruption” to more confident predictions of “significant disruption.” While a slight uptick in those believing robotics will have no impact was observed quarter-on-quarter, the overall sentiment remains largely positive.
Interestingly, there has also been an increase in uncertainty. Respondents indicating they “don’t know” how robotics might affect their industries climbed from 6% in mid-2023 to 12% by the end of 2024. Still, when added up, 61% of participants foresee robotics having either significant or at least slight disruption in their fields. Comparatively, robotics remains behind artificial intelligence (AI) at 78% and cybersecurity at 64% regarding expected disruptive potential.
This rising confidence comes amid growing cases of AI and robotics working in tandem. Recently, companies such as Nvidia, Neura, RoboForce, and Sereact have made significant moves in the sector, announcing new innovations and notable funding rounds. For instance, Neura’s advancements in AI-robotics integration and RoboForce’s $10 million initiative to scale robotic workforces underscore the momentum building in the field.
Oxford Economics further reinforced this narrative in a recent report, describing today as the arrival of the long-anticipated “robotics revolution.” They highlighted how the combination of generative AI and robotics has drastically expanded their use across business sectors. The report challenges previously-held assumptions about job security, suggesting even traditionally “safe” roles in finance, journalism, and healthcare could see automation disruption sooner than expected.
As companies continue to harness the synergies between AI and robotics, it's clear that the industry is poised for significant transformation. Whether it's through labor automation, smarter autonomous systems, or new applications yet to be realized, the future of robotics appears increasingly intertwined with that of AI—and the possibilities are nothing short of exciting.
