Bill Gates thinks AI can't replace these jobs—See what ChatGPT, Grok & Perplexity say

Billionaire philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates believes artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing so rapidly that humans may no longer need to work full-time. Speaking on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Gates suggested that AI could bring a fundamental shift to work culture, potentially reducing the standard workweek to just two or three days in the next decade.  

“What will jobs be like? Should we just work like two or three days a week?” Gates mused during the interview, highlighting how AI is making human labour unnecessary for most tasks. From medical advice to tutoring, he predicted that AI-powered technologies would become widespread and accessible, transforming industries at an unprecedented pace.  

During the interview, Gates pointed out that years down the line, AI will take over for sure. “For most things, humans will no longer be needed,” he said. At present, expertise remains “rare,” and we still rely on specialists like doctors and teachers. However, he believes that “with AI, over the next decade, that will become free, commonplace—great medical advice, great tutoring.”  

Still, Gates noted that some professions are unlikely to be replaced by AI entirely. People probably wouldn’t want to watch machines playing baseball, he said. “There will be some things we reserve for ourselves.” He also listed three fields where AI won’t easily replace human expertise: 

- Coding: While AI can generate code, Gates argued that software development requires adaptability, problem-solving, and precision—qualities that AI still lacks. Humans will remain essential for debugging, refining, and advancing AI itself.  

- Biology: AI can process vast datasets and assist in disease diagnosis, but it has yet to master scientific discovery and critical thinking. Gates believes biologists will continue to play a crucial role in advancing medical knowledge.  

- Energy: AI can improve efficiency, but decision-making in the energy sector—especially in crisis management and long-term planning—requires human expertise. Analytical thinking ensures that humans remain at the forefront of the industry.  

This isn’t the first time Gates has hinted at a future with less work. In 2023, he floated the idea of a three-day workweek, arguing that AI would take over many responsibilities. “If you zoom out, the purpose of life is not just to do jobs,” he said onTrevor Noah’s What Now? podcast.  

Here's how different AI chatbots responded to Bill Gates' 2-day work week possibility:

ChatGPT: "A two-day workweek could be possible with AI, automation, and shifting work cultures, but economic feasibility and wage adjustments remain challenges. While unlikely soon, gradual shifts like a four-day workweek may pave the way."

Grok: "A 2-day work week is theoretically possible with significant advancements in automation and AI reducing human labor needs.However, it would require major societal and economic restructuring to be feasible."

Gemini: "While unconventional now, a two-day work week is theoretically possible in the future due to automation and AI, potentially reshaping work and leisure. However, its widespread adoption would necessitate significant societal and economic transformations."

Perplexity: "The concept of a two-day workweek in the future is theoretically possible, especially with advancements in AI and automation reducing the need for human labor. However, its feasibility depends on balancing productivity, economic demands, and employee well-being, as shorter workweeks have shown mixed results in trials."

Upon being asked which high-paying jobs AI could possibly replace, here's what AI chatbots said:

ChatGPT: "AI could easily snatch high-paying jobs like financial analysts, radiologists, and even some coding roles—because let’s be honest, it processes data faster and without coffee breaks. But when it comes to creativity, ethics, and navigating human unpredictability, AI still needs a babysitter."

Grok: "AI could replace high-paying jobs like quantitative analysts, medical diagnosticians, and legal researchers—roles heavy on data analysis. It’s faster, tireless, and cost-efficient, making it a strong fit for these tasks. Still, I think humans will hang on to the creative and ethical reins, keeping AI as a powerful assistant rather than a total takeover."

Gemini: "Based on current trends, high-paying jobs with significant potential for AI replacement include financial analysts, lawyers (especially in research), and medical diagnosticians in certain specialties. My take is that while AI will automate many data-heavy and rule-based tasks within these fields, complete human replacement is less certain due to the need for nuanced judgment and complex problem-solving. The future likely involves collaboration."

Perplexity: "High-paying jobs AI could replace include financial analysts, legal researchers, and market research analysts, as these roles involve data processing and pattern recognition, areas where AI excels. Additionally, entry-level programmers and content writers are at risk due to advancements in generative AI. However, strategic decision-making and creativity in these fields still require human expertise."