Amazon’s CEO Andy Jassy has warned that the company’s adoption of generative AI (genAI) could result in job losses as it transforms the way work is conducted. In a memo to employees, Jassy stated that while genAI would eliminate some current roles, it would also create new job opportunities. The technology is being heavily invested in by Amazon, with over 1,000 genAI services and applications either in development or already operational. Jassy described genAI as a rare, once-in-a-lifetime emerging technology that will significantly alter the company’s operations scale and pace. The AI agents will enable Amazon to shift focus from repetitive tasks to strategic initiatives that enhance customer experience. “These agents will serve as teammates that we can engage at various stages of our work, becoming more knowledgeable and useful with experience,” Jassy explained. He encouraged staff to explore AI, participate in training programs, and experiment with the technology to expand their knowledge. Amazon has already introduced several AI-powered tools for customers, including a genAI short-form audio feature launched last month that synthesizes product summaries and reviews into brief audio clips using large language models (LLMs). In May, the company launched an AI skills training program in the UK, aiming to train around 100,000 individuals by 2030. The implementation of genAI is expected to make employees’ jobs more engaging while accelerating Amazon’s ability to improve customers’ daily lives.
