Amazon appears to be preparing for the next big leap in delivery automation , which will involve humanoid robots as… delivery people . According to a report by The Information , the tech giant is developing artificial intelligence software that will allow the robots to take over the final distribution of packages after they arrive at their destination in Rivian’s electric vans.
The company is said to be nearly finished building a special indoor “robot training park” at one of its San Francisco offices. The space, about the size of a coffee shop, even includes Rivian vans to simulate realistic scenarios. The humanoid robots are reportedly being trained to get into the vans, get off at delivery points, and leave packages at customers’ doorsteps.
See also: The ZERITH H1 humanoid robot is changing the game in hotels
The news comes as Amazon is making significant strides in integrating artificial intelligence into its supply chain operations. The company recently announced the formation of a new internal AI team to develop robotic systems for use in warehouses and logistics hubs.
As Amazon said in a statement: "Instead of static, single-function robots, we are developing systems that can listen, understand, and execute commands in natural language — transforming warehouse robots into flexible and multidimensional partners."
Amazon is investing in humanoid robots
Amazon is heavily focused on using autonomous robots, so rumors of humanoid robots delivering packages aren't far-fetched. The company also uses robots in its warehouses, such as Agility Robotics ' Digit humanoid robot .
See also: Hugging Face: Introduces two new humanoid robots
According to The Information, the company plans to evaluate a “variety” of humanoid robots for product deliveries, including robots from Chinese company Unitree.
Amazon currently employs hundreds of thousands of workers worldwide in its delivery chain. The use of robots and the acquisition of autonomous vehicle company Zoox in 2020 indicate the giant's intention to cover the entire spectrum of distribution technology, from the warehouse to the recipient's door.
From a technological perspective, it's a natural extension for Amazon. It's already invested in robotics in its warehouses, so the effort to automate the last stage of delivery is perfectly aligned with its long-term vision. If it can do it efficiently, it will significantly reduce costs, time, and the potential for error.
See also: Optimus: Tesla's humanoid robot dances!
However, there are significant challenges:
- Technological maturity: Humanoid robots for real environments – with stairs, difficult weather conditions, obstacles – are not yet reliable in practice. We are still in the experimental stage.
- Cost: Even the “cheapest” robots cost thousands of dollars each. Scaling globally requires huge investments.
- Social and labor footprint : Human resource substitution raises questions about the jobs of the future. Thousands of workers in the supply chain may be affected.
- Regulatory and legal framework: Robots on the streets or in customers' yards raise issues of safety, liability, and privacy.
Source: www.theverge.com
