Robotic Automation

Technology

The use of robots to perform tasks previously done by humans. Amazon's leaked plans aim to automate 75% of its warehouse operations, which raises broad concerns about AI-driven job displacement.


First Mentioned

10/25/2025, 12:39:49 AM

Last Updated

10/25/2025, 12:40:44 AM

Research Retrieved

10/25/2025, 12:40:44 AM

Summary

Robotic process automation (RPA) is a technology that uses software robots, or bots, to automate business processes by mimicking human interaction with a graphical user interface (GUI). Unlike traditional automation that relies on backend system interfaces, RPA tools learn tasks by observing a user perform them and then repeat those actions directly within the GUI, lowering the barrier to automation for systems lacking APIs. While sharing similarities with GUI testing tools, RPA distinguishes itself by its ability to manage data across multiple applications, such as extracting invoice data from emails and entering it into bookkeeping systems. Recent revelations, such as Amazon's extensive plans for robotic automation, have amplified concerns about AI-driven job displacement and its potential societal impacts, sparking broader discussions among figures like Andy Jassy, Elon Musk, and Bernie Sanders.

Referenced in 1 Document
Research Data
Extracted Attributes
  • Benefits

    Increased efficiency, reduced errors, speed, accuracy, streamlined operations

  • Category

    Business Process Automation

  • Synonyms

    Software robotics

  • Key Advantage

    Lowers barrier to automation for systems without APIs

  • Core Mechanism

    Software robots (bots) or AI agents

  • Learning Method

    Observes user performing tasks

  • Societal Impact

    Potential for AI-driven job displacement

  • Execution Method

    Repeats tasks directly in the GUI

  • Application Areas

    Enterprise automation, high-volume repetitive tasks, manufacturing, laboratory automation, medical device assembly

  • Automation Method

    Mimics human interaction with graphical user interface (GUI)

  • Relationship with AI

    Distinct from AI but often works alongside AI tools (e.g., generative AI) within Intelligent Automation

  • Typical Tasks Automated

    Data extraction, form filling, copy-pasting, calculations, file transfers, processing transactions, system integration

  • Distinction from GUI Testing Tools

    Handles data across multiple applications

Robotic process automation

Robotic process automation (RPA) is a form of business process automation that is based on software robots (bots) or artificial intelligence (AI) agents. RPA should not be confused with artificial intelligence as it is based on automation technology following a predefined workflow. It is sometimes referred to as software robotics (not to be confused with robot software). In traditional workflow automation tools, a software developer produces a list of actions to automate a task and interface to the back end system using internal application programming interfaces (APIs) or dedicated scripting language. In contrast, RPA systems develop the action list by watching the user perform that task in the application's graphical user interface (GUI) and then perform the automation by repeating those tasks directly in the GUI. This can lower the barrier to the use of automation in products that might not otherwise feature APIs for this purpose. RPA tools have strong technical similarities to graphical user interface testing tools. These tools also automate interactions with the GUI, and often do so by repeating a set of demonstration actions performed by a user. RPA tools differ from such systems in that they allow data to be handled in and between multiple applications, for instance, receiving email containing an invoice, extracting the data, and then typing that into a bookkeeping system.

Web Search Results
  • What is Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?

    Discover how easily agentic AI can enhance your business productivity. Request Demo Automation 101: Technology # What is Robotic Process Automation (RPA)? An Enterprise Guide. Robotic process automation (RPA) is software technology for quickly and reliably automating digital tasks. RPA remains a core technology for enabling enterprise automation, working alongside AI tools including generative AI, to execute business processes with speed and accuracy at scale. Navigate to content [...] A method of business process automation, RPA employs software robots, or "bots," to automate digital tasks typically performed by humans. RPA is known for its reliability in automating high-volume, repetitive tasks such as data extraction, form filling, copy-pasting, making calculations, file transfers, and connecting to APIs. Working via user interfaces as well as APIs, RPA integrates and executes processes and tasks across applications, including legacy enterprise systems. [...] No, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is not the same as Intelligent Automation, though the terms are often used interchangeably in the industry. Think of RPA as the essential building block within wider, dynamic architecture of Intelligent Automation. RPA focuses on automating rule-based, repetitive tasks by mimicking human interactions with digital systems. It’s incredibly effective at increasing efficiency and reducing errors in well-defined processes. Intelligent Automation, however, extends

  • What is Robotic Process Automation - RPA Software

    In robotic process automation (RPA), software robots handle repetitive, rule-based tasks like entering data, moving files, or processing transactions—quickly and accurately. By mimicking human actions in interacting with screens and systems, RPA helps enterprises streamline operations, reduce errors, and free up employees for more meaningful work. [...] Robotic process automation (RPA) uses software robots to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks like data entry and system integration. It mimics human actions in digital systems to work quickly and accurately. Today, millions of robots are at work around the world, touching virtually every industry and business process. ## What is robotic process automation? [...] ## Frequently asked questions about RPA Q: How does RPA work? A: Robotic process automation (RPA) uses software robots to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks like data entry, form processing, and system integration across enterprise systems. RPA mimics how people interact with digital systems to execute tasks quickly and accurately. Q: What business value does RPA deliver?

  • What is Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?

    IBM Robotic Process Automation is software that aims to automate repetitive and time-consuming back-office tasks by using software robots that emulate human actions on a computer. It forms part of IBM’s solution for business automation. Explore Robotic Process Automation IBM Cloud Pak For Business Automation IBM Cloud Pak for Business Automation is a modular set of integrated software components for operations management and automation. [...] Business automation # What is robotic process automation (RPA)? ## What is RPA? Robotic process automation (RPA), also known as software robotics, uses intelligent automation technologies to perform repetitive office tasks of human workers, such as extracting data, filling in forms, moving files and more. [...] Business Automation Business automation solutions Discover business process automation solutions that deliver intelligent automations quickly with low-code tooling. Explore automation solutions Take the next step IBM Robotic Process Automation is software that aims to automate repetitive and time-consuming back-office tasks by using software robots that emulate human actions on a computer. It forms part of IBM’s solution for business automation.

  • Robotics and its applications

    Robotic systems are utilized in laboratory automation to streamline workflows and increase throughput in research and development activities. These robots can perform tasks such as sample handling, compound screening, and assay preparation. [...] Robotics technology is also employed in manufacturing processes and medical device assembly to improve efficiency and quality control. Robotic systems can automate tasks such as dispensing, mixing, assembly and packaging, ensuring precise dosing and reducing the risk of contamination or errors during production. [...] Industrial Automation Industries around the globe have embraced robotics to streamline their operations and enhance efficiency. In manufacturing facilities, robots are employed for a wide array of tasks, ranging from assembly and welding to packaging and quality control. These robotic systems work tirelessly around the clock, ensuring consistent and flawless production outcomes while minimizing errors and waste.

  • Top 10 Robotics Trends & Innovations in 2025

    Emerging robotics trends meet the growing demand for industrial automation, digitalization, and sustainability. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) automate material handling in warehouses. On the other hand, cobots perform pick-and-place tasks alongside humans in manufacturing operations. The robotics sector also sees large activity and investment in drones, humanoid robots, and robotic cybersecurity, among others. This report provides an overview of robotics

Location Data

Automation & Robotic Technologies, 28, Coombes Drive, Thornton, Penrith, Sydney, Penrith City Council, New South Wales, 2750, Australia

electronics

Coordinates: -33.7449520, 150.7025325

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