We'e rapidly entering an era where robots don;t simply operate with human commands from static maps and point-to-point instructions; they do so autonomously — and with each other.

The majority of production deployments of humanoid robots over the next couple years will be limited to "tightly controlled environments," Gartner predicts.

In an era where speed, accuracy, and efficiency are the lifeblood of retail, the logistics industry is undergoing significant change. At the heart of this is goods-to-person (GTP) automation, a technology that could change not just the warehouse floor, but the economics and possibilities of fulfillment itself.

From manufacturing and logistics to finance and customer service, automation is redefining how work gets done.

Wing's delivery drones can carry up to five pounds at a time, and are capable of traveling at speeds of up to 60 miles an hour.

Hyundai says the Atlas robots will gradually take on more tasks beyond general industrial use, and are being developed to work alongside people and autonomously manage machines.

Goods-to-person automation flips traditional warehouse processes on their head.

Drone deliveries for Atlanta started on December 3, and include groceries, household goods, toys and over-the-counter medicine.

Nearly half of workers consider themselves optimistic about the role of automation in warehouses, compared to 32% who described themselves as reluctant.

Nick Glynne, CEO and founder of Buy It Direct which owns Appliances Direct, said that he expects to get rid of 500 of the company’s current 800 workers.