Amazon launches new AI foundation model, deploys 1 millionth robot - The Robot Report

Amazon has reached a significant milestone by deploying its 1 millionth robot across its global fulfillment network, solidifying its position as the world’s largest operator and manufacturer of industrial mobile robots. This achievement builds on a robotics journey that began with the acquisition of Kiva Systems in 2012 and has since evolved to include advanced autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) like Proteus, Hercules, Pegasus, and Titan, capable of handling various inventory weights and tasks with precision navigation and safety around employees. Alongside this milestone, Amazon introduced DeepFleet, a generative AI foundation model designed to optimize the coordination and movement of its robotic fleet. DeepFleet acts like an intelligent traffic management system, improving robot travel times by 10%, reducing congestion, and enabling faster, more cost-effective package deliveries. This AI leverages Amazon’s extensive inventory data and AWS tools to enhance operational efficiency while supporting the company’s processing of billions of orders annually. Despite the increasing automation, Amazon emphasizes its commitment to workforce development, retraining