Amazon Partners with AI Robotics Company for Enhanced Warehouse Automation

Amazon has entered into a new partnership with robotics software company Covariant, which involves not only acquiring the company's staff but also aiming to boost automation in its warehouses. This collaboration will provide Amazon with a non-exclusive license to Covariant's foundational robotic models, with the goal of enhancing the learning capabilities of Amazon's robotic systems and expanding automation opportunities in the future.

The focus is on building upon Amazon's existing work with incorporating AI models into its robotics to create safer and more adaptable systems on a larger scale. This includes developing new methods for robots to better serve both employees and customers. Key members of Covariant, including Pieter Abbeel, Peter Chen, and Rocky Duan, along with a significant portion of the company's workforce, will join Amazon's Fulfillment Technologies & Robotics Team.

Their combined efforts will propel the advancement and integration of cutting-edge technology within Amazon's operations while continuing to push the boundaries of innovative AI solutions. Covariant, established in 2017, specializes in constructing advanced AI models that empower robots to perceive, analyze, and interact with their environment, particularly in tasks related to warehouse automation.

Amazon commended Covariant for its iterative and customer-centric approach to tech development, showcasing a deep understanding of the end-to-end warehouse automation process. In addition to absorbing Covariant's talented staff, Amazon plans to expand its AI and robotics team in the San Francisco Bay Area, where both companies are headquartered, to further bolster their collaborative efforts.

Joseph Quinlivan, Vice President of Amazon Fulfillment Technologies & Robotics, expressed excitement about leveraging the expertise of Covariant's team to drive fundamental research and enhance AI and robotics capabilities within Amazon's operations. Integrating Covariant's AI technology into Amazon's existing fleet of robots will enhance performance, ultimately delivering tangible value to customers.

At present, Amazon utilizes AI technology and AWS infrastructure to deploy hundreds of thousands of mobile robots, robotic arms, and other automated systems in its operations. Notable examples include Robin, a stationary robotic arms system, Sequoia, a robot aiding inventory identification, and Digit, a bipedal robot designed for movement, grasping, and item handling—all launched last year. These robots rely on AI to navigate the physical world, carry out tasks safely, and collaborate effectively with human counterparts.