China's 'Robot Trainers' Fold Clothes 200 Times a Day

In China, a new type of job has emerged where workers, known as 'robot trainers', are hired to perform everyday household chores such as folding clothes and washing dishes. These tasks are repeated up to 200 times a day, with the goal of generating data to train robots.

The robot trainers wear motion-capture gear to record their movements, which are then converted into training sets to help robots work in various settings, including kitchens, factories, and supermarkets.

The monthly earnings of these robot trainers range from 4,000 yuan to 6,000 yuan, which is equivalent to US$600 to US$900. Jobs for robot trainers are advertised on social media and job platforms in mainland China, attracting unemployed workers and young people seeking flexible jobs.

## Why it matters The emergence of robot trainers in China highlights the growing demand for data to train robots, which will eventually work in various industries. While some view this as a positive development, others see it as ironic that humans are teaching robots to work, only to be replaced by them in the future.

The data generated by robot trainers will play a crucial role in helping robots work efficiently in settings such as kitchens, factories, and supermarkets. As the use of robots becomes more widespread, the demand for robot trainers is likely to increase, providing new job opportunities for those seeking flexible work arrangements.

## What happens next As the field of robotics continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the role of robot trainers develops. With the potential for robots to replace human workers in various industries, the question remains whether the benefits of robot trainers will outweigh the potential drawbacks. For now, the job of a robot trainer remains a unique and fascinating example of how humans are contributing to the development of artificial intelligence.