Meet North, the Robot Dealer That Could Reshape Casino Jobs Forever
A robot named North made waves at this year’s CES by dealing blackjack at an autonomous gaming table. The demonstration, held in Las Vegas, highlighted the machine’s human-like dexterity—but also raised concerns about the future of casino jobs. Over 5,000 dealers in the city rely on hand-dealt games for their livelihoods.
North, developed by robotics firm Sharpa, was designed to handle tasks the company describes as 'lower-value'—including casino dealing. The robot’s skills went beyond cards, with demonstrations of ping-pong and paper windmill construction showcasing its precision. Yet its slow pace drew criticism from attendees and social media users.
The blackjack demo was a deliberate nod to CES’ host city, where gaming is a major industry. But the reaction was mixed. Some observers questioned whether North would even be needed by the time it’s fully operational, predicting that casinos might phase out hand-dealt games entirely. Others warned of job losses, arguing that automation could threaten the thousands employed as dealers. Sharpa’s founder and CEO, Dr. Siyuan Dong, has positioned North as a tool to 'free people from repetitive work'. However, the potential impact on casino staff remains a contentious issue.
The CES demonstration put North’s capabilities on display, but it also exposed tensions over automation in the gaming sector. With Las Vegas dealers already facing uncertainty, the robot’s arrival has reignited debates about the balance between technological progress and job security. The industry’s response to such innovations could shape the future of casino employment.
