Core Insights - The article discusses the evolution of "technological leverage" in business, culminating in the emergence of "unmanned companies" driven by AI, which automate cognitive processes and redefine organizational structures [2][3][20]. Group 1: Evolution of Technological Leverage - The historical progression of leverage in business can be categorized into four paradigms: physical leverage, process leverage, connection leverage, and cognitive leverage [6]. - The physical leverage era relied on human skills and limited tools, resulting in low productivity and linear relationships [7][9]. - The industrial revolutions introduced physical leverage through steam engines and electricity, significantly increasing productivity and leading to new organizational forms like factories [8][11]. - The software revolution marked the process leverage era, enabling standardized processes but facing limitations in adaptability [12][15]. - The internet era introduced connection leverage, allowing for the aggregation of isolated services and users, reducing distribution costs [13][14]. - The cognitive leverage era, driven by AI, automates thinking and decision-making processes, leading to unprecedented organizational transformations [15][18]. Group 2: Emergence of Unmanned Companies - "Unmanned companies" are characterized by minimal human involvement, with AI systems autonomously handling information processing, decision-making, and task execution [20]. - The operational mechanism of unmanned companies is based on an automated OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act), enhancing market adaptability and operational efficiency [21][22]. - The technology stack of unmanned companies consists of a cognitive core for strategic decision-making, automated business processes for operational tasks, and an interface layer for external connectivity [23][24]. Group 3: Redefining Competitive Advantage - The rise of unmanned companies shifts competitive advantages from operational efficiency to the ability to define strategic goals and insights [27]. - Companies will focus on building unique data loops to optimize AI models, creating a "smart flywheel" effect that enhances decision-making and user engagement [27][28]. - The role of human employees will evolve to focus on high-level strategic functions, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and ethical oversight [29]. Group 4: Challenges and Risks - The transition to unmanned companies presents systemic risks, including alignment of AI goals with human welfare, transparency in AI decision-making, and potential security vulnerabilities [30][31]. - The societal impact of unmanned companies may lead to significant disruptions in traditional job markets and wealth distribution [32]. Group 5: Future of Business - The future of business will involve mastering the new leverage of AI while ensuring human oversight and ethical considerations remain central to decision-making [35][36].