Amazon is reportedly exploring the use of humanoid robots for outdoor delivery, according to a new report from The Information.
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The report, which Amazon has not confirmed, says the company is testing Agility Robotics’ Digit humanoid robots at its facilities, and is now training them for potential use in last-mile delivery.
According to the report, Digit robots are already used to move empty tote containers inside warehouses. The next phase of testing would reportedly involve training robots to deliver packages to customers’ homes.
Reactions to the report have been swift across the logistics and technology community. “Humanoid robots are stepping out of sci-fi and into real-world deliveries—total game-changer!” wrote Ricky Roy, who runs the popular YouTube channel Two Bit da Vinci. “This cuts delivery times and boosts efficiency by handling repetitive tasks humans don’t love.”
Others raised questions about how robot delivery will be received in the real world. “Can you imagine a human driving a Prime Rivian van to your neighborhood, and four robots jump out and run to the doors and set down the packages and then jump back in?” said Scot Wingo, CEO of ReFiBuy.ai. They should redesign the van so the droids fold up and hang off the side like the Trade Federation Droid Carriers from Episode One.”
Agility Robotics declined to comment and referred questions to Amazon. Supply Chain 24/7 also reached out to Amazon for comment and will update the story if the company responds.
