Amazon Accelerates Delivery with AI, Robotics, and Innovative Eyewear
- tech360.tv
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Amazon is deploying advanced technologies, including robotics and smart eyewear, and plans to deploy an artificial intelligence system, to significantly reduce delivery times. The company aims to move beyond two-day delivery, striving for same-day or even within-an-hour service for customers. These innovations focus on shaving seconds off each delivery process.
The company showcased advanced eyeglasses for delivery workers, known internally as Amelia. These glasses feature a small screen providing turn-by-turn directions, package code scanning, and photo capture for proof of delivery. Amelia could replace bulky handheld Global Positioning System devices, offering navigation tips for complex locations and hazard avoidance.
The eyeglasses operate with a paired controller in a driver's vest and utilise swappable battery packs to address battery life challenges. Beryl Tomay, Amazon transportation vice president, stated that hundreds of delivery drivers had already tested the glasses on their routes. Tomay noted the glasses reduce the need to manage a phone and a package, enhancing driver attention and safety, with some drivers experiencing 30 minutes of time savings per shift.
While experimental and with plans still in flux, the smartglasses will be optional for drivers and their contracted companies, distributed free to those who opt in. These developments are part of Amazon's focus on the "last 100 yards" of delivery, which represents the most expensive final steps to customers.
Additionally, Amazon revealed a robotic arm called Blue Jay, designed to work alongside warehouse employees. This robot picks items off shelves and sorts them, aiming for faster, more accurate order fulfilment and reduced injury rates. Blue Jay can also operate in smaller spaces compared to previous equivalent robots.
The Blue Jay robot is already active in a South Carolina warehouse, with plans to expand its deployment to more facilities. These will particularly include sub-same-day sites, which concentrate on deliveries within a few hours or less.
Amazon also plans to implement an artificial intelligence system in warehouses, starting at a facility in Tennessee. This system will manage high-level operations, preventing gridlock and other slowdowns. Tye Brady, chief technologist of Amazon robotics, stated the tool can analyse site data as it happens, helping operators with daily planning once fully implemented. The company intends to offer this software across its warehouse network.
Previous initiatives include a delivery van scanner, which directs drivers to packages for each stop by shining a green spotlight on them. In June, new digital maps offering detailed neighbourhood information, building shapes, and obstacles were also shown.
The company's expansion of warehouse robots is projected to reduce its United States hiring by 160,000 workers over the next two years, according to The New York Times. Amazon does plan to hire 250,000 temporary workers for the holiday season. Amazon shares declined 1.8% to USD 217.95, making it the only "Magnificent Seven" technology stock to record a year-to-date decline.
Amazon is using AI, robotics, and smart eyewear to speed up deliveries.
New "Amelia" smartglasses provide navigation and package scanning for drivers.
The "Blue Jay" robotic arm is enhancing warehouse efficiency, and an AI system is planned to do so upon deployment.
Source: REUTERS