AI Creates Hundreds of Data Annotation Jobs in Karur as Coding Roles Shrink
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 20
AI Creates Hundreds of Data Annotation Jobs in Karur as Coding Roles Shrink
2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 20
Summary
Hundreds of workers in Karur, near India’s southern tip, are finding new jobs in data annotation as AI demand spreads beyond data centers into local tech labs and homes.
Data annotators review video frame by frame, spot bugs and blind spots, and supply the human input still needed to improve AI systems used in cars, factories and retail inventory tracking.
Some workers also take weekend gigs from home, including recording everyday tasks with iPhones strapped to their heads to generate training data and supplement income.
The work is often repetitive and less complex than engineering jobs, but it offers an entry-level outlet as AI reshapes product design and erodes some coding opportunities for college graduates.
Karur’s growth in annotation highlights how India is adapting to AI with a large young workforce and persistent shortages of entry-level jobs.