In a move to further propel its warehouse automation efforts, Amazon has announced the acquisition of key talent from robotics software developer Covariant, Bloomberg reported.
This strategic move, categorised as an acquihire, will see Amazon integrate Covariant's founders and approximately 25% of its staff into its existing Fulfillment Technologies & Robotics team.
The acquisition forms part of Amazon's longstanding commitment to warehouse automation, exemplified by its 2012 purchase of Kiva Systems.
Kiva's robots revolutionised fulfilment for the company by automating product retrieval within vast warehouses, significantly expediting online order fulfilment.
Covariant's expertise lies in developing advanced AI models that equip robots with the ability to 'see, reason, and act' within their environment.
This technology finds application across diverse warehouse tasks, according to Covariant's website, with existing clients such as online retailer Otto Group, logistics company Radial, and pharmaceutical distributor McKesson Corp.
The agreement extends beyond personnel acquisition.
Amazon has secured a nonexclusive license to Covariant's foundational robotic models.
This strategic licensing move will likely contribute to the further development and refinement of Amazon's in-house automation solutions.
While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, the combined expertise of Covariant's team and access to its robust robotic models position Amazon to further enhance its warehouse automation capabilities.
This move holds significant implications for the future of e-commerce fulfilment, potentially leading to faster order processing times and improved operational efficiency for Amazon and other companies leveraging similar technologies.
Last month, it was announced that Amazon was set to revolutionise UK deliveries with the launch of its Prime Air drone service by the end of the year.
The online retail giant received approval from the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority to test-fly drones beyond the human eye, paving the way for rapid package deliveries directly to customers’ homes.
