Tesla CEO Elon Musk offered a bold view of the future, saying daily work could become optional within the next two decades as AI and robotics reshape daily life. Speaking at the US–Saudi Investment Forum, Musk said rapid advances in technology could make traditional jobs unnecessary for most people. “I do not know exactly what long-term means, perhaps 10 to 20 years,” he said. “My prediction is that work will be optional.”He compared future work to hobbies such as playing sports or video games, suggesting people may choose to work only if they enjoy it. According to Musk, people could still earn money, shop normally or even grow their own food.
However, social media was very sceptical of such a hugely idealistic and optimistic idea, with users trolling Musk by comparing it to the film Wall-E. Meanwhile, left-wing X users argued that Musk’s vision would only ever be possible for the rich. Musk went a step further by suggesting that money itself may lose its importance if AI and robotics continue to improve. He said a future society might function without relying heavily on currency, although access to energy and raw materials would still set limits. He pointed again to Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot, saying robots could become a larger industry than smartphones. The billionaire argued that use of advanced robots could help eliminate poverty by lowering the cost of labour and increasing productivity. “AI and humanoid robots will actually eliminate poverty,” Musk said, adding that many companies, not just Tesla, will eventually produce such machines.