Watch out baristas, your job might be in jeopardy. A team of researchers at Cornell University have built a robot that not only makes espresso and steams milk, but also can learn how to operate new espresso machines. Gizmag reports that the robot barista utilizes a deep learning algorithm and a 3D camera to analyze how to use a piece of equipment. It can then plot the movements necessary to complete its task. The robo-barista already has learned how to operate three different types of espresso machines. There is no word, however, whether the robo-barista prefers Slayer or La Marzocco.
It looks like I could learn a thing or two from this robot! I may need to take a few courses to up my skills! It is amazing, though, how far technology has come.
Mock it all you want, robots are a lot more consistent than humans and cheaper. Give it another 10-15 years and the barista might be obsolete…