Meta’s Robot Trials in Data Centers Spark Debate Over Labor, Automation, and the Future of Tech
Meta is testing robots from Kinova, ABB, and Watney Robotics to handle repetitive tasks like cable swapping and server power cycling in its data centers, according to current and former workers. The tests, ongoing at facilities in Iowa and Ohio, could reduce human workloads by up to 80% in some roles, but raise questions about job security and the scalability of automation in high-stakes tech infrastructure.
Robots in Action: Cable Swapping and Power Cycling Trials
At Meta’s Altoona, Iowa, campus, dual-armed Watney Robotics machines have been testing cabling tasks since June 2025, though they remain slower than human technicians and require supervision. A Kinova Gen3 robotic arm is being evaluated for power-cycling servers, while ABB systems reseat components in Ohio. A Meta worker told Wired that a successful cable-swapping system could eliminate 80% of certain roles, echoing concerns from industry insiders. “We thought those of us performing the physical tasks were safe for a while, but not anymore. It’s coming for us all, unfortunately,” the worker said.
The Automation Dilemma: Effici...