Mechanize Startup Aims to Fully Automate Work

AI researcher Tamay Besiroglu has launched Mechanize, a startup that aims to fully automate all work by developing digital environments, benchmarks, and training data to enable AI agents to perform any job, with an initial focus on automating white-collar work instead of manual labor. Besiroglu estimates the potential market for such automation at $18 trillion annually in the U.S. and $60 trillion globally. The launch has drawn sharp criticism, with opponents warning about mass unemployment, concentration of wealth, and questioning the neutrality of Besiroglu's research institute, Epoch, due to its close relationship with Mechanize. Supporters argue that full automation could spur unprecedented economic growth and improve living standards, but many remain skeptical about whether benefits would be distributed fairly and if AI can replicate human traits. The controversy has affected the reputation of Epoch and raised broader questions about the ethical implications of AI-driven automation. The debate now also focuses on the influence of AI researchers in shaping economic policy and the future of work.