Amazon is taking a significant step toward automating its delivery operations by developing software for humanoid robots that could eventually replace human delivery workers.
According to reports from The Information, the e-commerce giant is putting the finishing touches on a specialized testing facility dubbed 'humanoid park' at one of its San Francisco offices. This indoor obstacle course is designed to simulate real-world delivery conditions, complete with a Rivian electric delivery van on site where robots can practice entering and exiting the vehicle while carrying packages to doorsteps.
Rather than building the robots themselves, Amazon is focusing on developing the artificial intelligence software that will power these machines. For initial testing, the company plans to use hardware from other manufacturers, with reports mentioning China-based Unitree as one potential supplier. Unitree has gained recognition for its relatively affordable humanoid robots, with models starting around $16,000.
The initiative represents a natural extension of Amazon's existing automation strategy, which already includes extensive robotics in its warehouses and fulfillment centers. Currently, Amazon operates over 20,000 Rivian electric vans for deliveries, with plans to increase this number to 100,000 by the end of the decade. While humans currently drive these vehicles and deliver packages, the company envisions humanoid robots eventually handling the last-mile delivery portion.
This development underscores the growing interest among tech giants in humanoid robotics designed to mimic human movement and task capabilities. If successful, these robots could revolutionize last-mile delivery services, potentially reducing labor costs while increasing delivery efficiency in Amazon's vast logistics network.
Amazon has not officially confirmed the report, and did not respond to media inquiries outside regular business hours. However, the move aligns with the company's Wednesday announcements showcasing how AI technologies will be integrated into its logistics infrastructure to enhance package delivery speed and efficiency.