AI startup offers free home cleaning, but workers to wear head-mounted cameras: ‘sensitive information...' | Here's why
The company said the videos collected during the cleaning sessions would be used to train humanoid robots, which it believes could independently perform household chores in the future.
With the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), companies are increasingly using humans to gather real-world data for training AI models - often requiring nothing more than a head strap and a smartphone.
A US-based AI startup is now offering free home cleaning services in New York City, but with one condition: cleaners wear head-mounted cameras that record first-person footage while carrying out household tasks.
Shift, the AI training startup behind the initiative, stated on its website that customers' privacy will not be compromised and that any "sensitive information will be blurred" in the recorded footage.
Footage aimed at training humanoid robots
The company said the videos collected during the cleaning sessions would be used to train humanoid robots, which it believes could independently perform household chores in the future.
Shift promotes itself online with the slogan, "Your home. Cleaned for free," while advertising services including laundry folding, dishwashing, fridge organisation and bathroom cleaning.
According to the startup, the data gathered from routine household activities is valuable enough to entirely subsidise the cleaning service.
Startup claims operations in over 15 countries
The company further stated that it operates across more than 15 countries and works with thousands of individuals who record videos for AI training purposes. It also has an application form on its website for people interested in working with the service.
"More challenging cleaning environments can be especially useful," an FAQ document published on the company's website states.
"That said, cleaners may decline any specific task they are not comfortable performing."
Internet divided over AI-powered future
The video quickly sparked debate online, with social media users divided over whether such AI-related work opportunities represent progress or pose long-term risks.
One user wrote: "THIS is the beginning of how 'AI' and tech are going to start directly affecting and improving our quality of life."
Another user commented: "People are going to hate you, but once robots start doing physical work, everyone gets rich."
A third user wrote: “AI is only about making ordinary people poor. Or leaving them to death, maybe.”
A fourth user said: "This feels less like a launch and more like early future infrastructure."
Bengaluru vegetable seller previously went viral
In a similar incident, a vegetable seller in Bengaluru was spotted wearing a head-mounted device with an iPhone attached to his forehead.
According to an Instagram post, the vendor claimed he was being paid ₹350 per hour for the task, prompting several users online to calculate that he could potentially earn more than ₹1 lakh a month.
The individual who recorded the video said he was shocked to discover that a street vendor could possibly earn more than many office workers simply by “helping collect data for AI”.
About the Author
Kanishka Singharia is a Senior Content Producer at Mint with a passion for news, trends, and the stories shaping the digital world. She specialises in spotting viral narratives by constantly tracking social media platforms and turning them into engaging, reader-friendly stories. Her work ranges from fast-paced breaking updates to sensitive human-interest features, blending speed with clarity. <br><br> With over four years of experience in news and trend reporting, Kanishka has worked with leading organisations such as Hindustan Times and Times Now. She moves seamlessly between profiling business leaders and telling the stories of everyday people, covering national developments just as effortlessly as the memes and conversations that dominate online culture. <br><br> She also reports on real estate developments and civic challenges in major urban hubs like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Gurugram. Her coverage frequently explores the struggles of startup founders, inspiring journeys of CEOs, and the experiences of candidates dealing with the complexities of visa processes. <br><br> Kanishka holds an undergraduate degree in Journalism from Delhi University and a diploma from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication. Rarely offline, she spends much of her time scrolling through X, LinkedIn, Reddit, Instagram, and Facebook in search of the next big story. When she finally logs off, she enjoys binge-watching shows and exploring cafes in pursuit of good food and better conversations.
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