Foxconn Chairman: Robots Will Soon Replace Humans on iPhone Assembly Lines

Taipei, May 22, 2025 — Foxconn, Apple’s primary manufacturing partner, is rapidly moving toward full automation of its production lines, including those assembling iPhones. In a major industry shift, Chairman Young Liu announced that the company aims to phase out low-skilled human labor in favor of robots and generative AI systems.

Speaking at a tech industry conference, Liu stated that AI and robotics are already streamlining workflows, reducing reliance on manual labor in Foxconn’s sprawling factories. He emphasized that the goal is to transform all Foxconn facilities into fully automated smart factories, a vision that could significantly reshape global electronics manufacturing.

“Robots, guided by AI, will eventually handle all aspects of assembly,” Liu said. “This is not just about cost reduction, but about enhancing precision, consistency, and safety.”

The transition comes amid rising global labor costs and increasing demand for faster, more efficient production. Foxconn’s automation strategy is expected to boost productivity, minimize human error, and potentially reduce labor disputes, which have plagued the company in the past.

Industry analysts suggest that while high-skilled roles in robotics and engineering will grow, millions of low-skill jobs worldwide could be impacted if similar automation trends are adopted across the tech supply chain.