Final answer:
Homo erectus began using simple Oldowan tools and later developed the more complex Acheulean tool industry, which included hand axes that offered improved efficiency for various tasks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Earlier finds indicate that Homo erectus started out by using Oldowan tools, which were simple stone tools dating back to 2.6 million years ago, likely first created by Homo habilis. However, as time progressed, H. erectus developed and began using more complex stone tools known as the Acheulean tool industry. This industry is characterized by the production of hand axes and is notable for requiring more advanced skills to create the tools. The Acheulean tools, including biface tools like hand-axes, appeared approximately 1.6 million years ago and provided Homo erectus with more efficient cutting, scraping, and chopping abilities for a variety of purposes such as hunting and butchering meat.