Amazon announced on Wednesday its development of AI-powered smart glasses designed for delivery drivers. These glasses aim to offer a hands-free experience, reducing the need for drivers to frequently switch their attention between their phones, packages, and surroundings.
The e-commerce giant explained that the glasses will enable delivery drivers to scan packages, follow step-by-step navigation instructions, and capture proof of delivery without having to use a smartphone. Leveraging AI-driven sensing capabilities and computer vision technology, the glasses incorporate a camera to generate a display that provides information such as hazards and delivery tasks.
By offering detailed navigation and hazard alerts directly in the driver's line of sight, Amazon hopes to reduce the time required for each delivery.
When drivers arrive at a delivery location, the glasses automatically activate. They help drivers locate packages inside the vehicle and then guide them to the delivery address, offering easy-to-follow directions even in multi-unit apartment buildings and commercial complexes.
The glasses pair with a controller worn in the delivery vest, which includes operational controls, a replaceable battery, and a dedicated emergency button.
Amazon also noted that the glasses are compatible with prescription lenses and auto-dimming lenses.
The company is currently testing the glasses with delivery drivers in North America and plans to refine the technology before a broader rollout.
This announcement comes as no surprise, as Reuters previously reported last year that Amazon was working on smart glasses.
Looking ahead, Amazon said the glasses will be capable of “real-time defect detection,” alerting drivers if they accidentally deliver a package to the wrong address. The glasses will also be able to detect pets in yards and automatically adjust to low-light conditions and other potential hazards.
Also on Wednesday, Amazon unveiled a new robotic arm called “Blue Jay” designed to work alongside warehouse employees, picking and sorting items from shelves. Additionally, the tech giant announced a new AI tool named Eluna, which will provide operational insights for Amazon’s warehouses.
