In the latest episode of IoT Unplugged, João Pereira, Director, EMEA General Embedded Markets, QNX talks about how to accelerate robotics adoption following the publication of the UK’s Industrial Strategy.
The UK’s recently released modern industrial strategy highlights robotics as central to automation, productivity, and global competitiveness. The strategy emphasises robotics’ role in efficient manufacturing and healthcare innovation, with government support for adoption and workforce training.
Pereira noted that robotics is increasingly seen as vital for the UK’s economic aims, and shared findings from QNX’s global research, which surveyed around 1,000 IT leaders, including those in the UK. The research reveals that nearly two-thirds of UK industrial decision-makers plan to introduce robotics, driven primarily by cost reduction and safety improvements.
However, about a third are uncertain about rollout timelines, citing inadequate policies and regulations as significant barriers. There is a clear need for a legal framework addressing safety, security, and ethical concerns, especially as robots and humans interact more closely in workplaces.
The conversation also covered the evolving definition of robots, including debates about drones and humanoids, and the need for legislation to keep pace with technological advancements. Pereira highlighted the importance of certification and clear guidelines, drawing parallels with the automotive industry’s approach to safety standards.
Public perception was another key theme addressed. While government policy encourages robotics, public and workforce attitudes remain ambivalent. Trust in robots is high for essential workplace functions but drops for tasks involving direct human interaction, such as medical procedures or customer service. Concerns about job security, ethics, and over-reliance on technology persist, though trust increases where safety and productivity benefits are well demonstrated.
To accelerate robotics adoption, Pereira identified four main hurdles: workplace readiness, security concerns, skills gaps, and regulatory uncertainty. He noted that the importance of easy-to-use software platforms, like QNX, which help companies achieve safety certification and focus on application development rather than foundational software.
Ultimately, Pereira expressed his optimism about the future of robotics and his advice for companies to partner with experienced organisations to accelerate development and adoption, learning from best practices across industries.
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