Amazon introduced its one millionth robot and showed off AI to coordinate deliveries

Amazon has announced the launch of its one millionth robot into its logistics network and unveiled DeepFleet, an AI model that manages the movement of machines in warehouses. The company said the bot entered a Japanese fulfillment center and became part of a network of more than 300 facilities.

DeepFleet coordinates the movements of different types of robots, including Pegasus, Hercules and Proteus, reducing costs and increasing delivery speeds. Amazon estimates that using AI reduces traffic congestion, improves routing efficiency, and reduces turnaround time by 10%. The model is trained on the company’s massive datasets using AWS tools, including SageMaker.

Amazon emphasizes that AI allows it to keep more items closer to the customer, reducing delivery times. At the same time, the system is able to adapt to changing conditions and will “get smarter” over time.

Robots perform routine and heavy tasks, freeing up staff for more technical work. Amazon Robotics Vice President Scott Dresser said the new center in Louisiana employs 30 percent more engineers and service technicians.

However, CEO Andy Jassy has previously admitted: the proliferation of generative AI could lead to layoffs. While Amazon will continue to recruit in AI and robotics, it warned in June of possible staff cuts in other divisions.

According to a Pew survey, it is factories that are considered the most vulnerable to automation.