E-commerce major Amazon is set to start testing Digit, a bipedal, human-centric, multi-purpose robot created by Agility Robotics.

The retailer will use the robot in its operations at its robotics research and development facility in Seattle, US.

Digit is the first human-centric robot for logistics work and can move, grasp and handle items in spaces designed for humans.

The size and shape of the robot is also suitable for buildings that are meant for people.

The trial is expected to help Amazon’s employees with tote recycling.

Amazon engineering director Emily Vetterick stated: “Digit’s size and shape are well-suited for buildings that are designed for humans, and we believe that there is a big opportunity to scale a mobile manipulator solution.

“Collaborative robotics solutions like Digit support workplace safety and help Amazon deliver to customers faster, while creating new opportunities and career paths for our employees.”

Agility is part of the Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund and the trial expands the relationship between the two companies.

Digit will initially engage in bulk material handling within warehouses and distribution centres.

The robot is expected to be available to Agility Partner Program members in 2024, with market roll-out in 2025.

Agility Robotics co-founder and CEO Damion Shelton stated: “Amazon is a company that is committed to making the work experience of their employees safer, easier, and less repetitive. When we announced our most recent version of Digit earlier this year, this is exactly the type of repetitive material handling deployment we had in mind; one that enables humans to be more human.”