For the past few years, the Delivering the Future event has been a platform to showcase Amazon’s latest technologies. The event in Seattle in 2023 highlighted updates to Amazon’s pharmacy services and drone deliveries. This year in Nashville, Amazon focused on AI improvements to enhance shopping experiences and how computer vision is being used to speed up package delivery. Although no new robotics systems were unveiled during the two-day event, it provided valuable insights into how Amazon is integrating its current offerings.
Shortly after the event, TechCrunch had the opportunity to speak with Tye Brady, Amazon Robotics chief technologist. This annual conversation allowed us to delve deeper into how Amazon’s robotics narrative has evolved over the past year and what the future holds. Amazon currently has over 750,000 robots deployed in its U.S. fulfillment centers, primarily consisting of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). These robots have been a familiar sight in Amazon’s warehouses since the acquisition of Kiva Systems in 2012. The company has also introduced robotic arms like Robin, Cardinal, and Sparrow for sorting and stacking objects.
A recent addition to Amazon’s robotics family is Sequoia, unveiled at the 2023 Delivering the Future event. This automated storage and retrieval system is reminiscent of systems offered by other companies like AutoStore. The first Sequoia system was launched in 2023 in a Houston-area fulfillment center, and Amazon has now implemented a system five times larger in a warehouse in Shreveport, Louisiana. This marks the beginning of Amazon’s “Gen 12” buildings, which will employ a significantly increased number of robots, leading to more job opportunities in the field.
As Amazon continues to expand and innovate its robotics operations, the company emphasizes the coexistence of humans and robots. Automation enables humans to focus on tasks that require problem-solving, common sense, and reasoning skills. While the company has experimented with bipedal robots like Agility’s Digit in the past, details about humanoid robots at the recent event were scarce. Collaborations with companies like UC Berkeley spinoff Covariant highlight Amazon’s commitment to enhancing foundational models in industrial settings, particularly in areas like product picking and placement.
In conclusion, Amazon’s robotics journey continues to evolve, with a focus on integrating advanced technologies to streamline operations and improve efficiency. The company’s partnership with various organizations and its investment in cutting-edge robotics solutions demonstrate its dedication to shaping the future of automation in fulfillment centers.
