Amazon recently announced a prototype of its new artificial intelligence powered smart glasses, dubbed “Amelia,” specifically intended for its delivery drivers. The plan received enthusiastic applause at the launch event held this week in Silicon Valley, California. Amazon’s Vice President of Transportation Beryl Tomay beamed as she displayed the nifty gadget.
With a built-in camera and heads-up display, the pair of smart glasses improve the productivity and effectiveness of delivery operations. Delivery drivers can use the glasses in conjunction with a specially-designed waistcoat. This waistcoat comes equipped with a button so they can capture pictures of their deliveries. By integrating both solutions, the final mile delivery process can become more efficient, empowering drivers to accurately capture their daily work with fewer disruptions.
These Amelia glasses have one surprise party trick up their sleeve. They don’t have to guess, because they’re able to recognize when the driver is in a high-speed, moving vehicle. To prevent distraction when movement is detected, the glasses will automatically turn off. This is critical for ensuring that drivers can keep their eyes on the road while still leveraging innovative technologies that make their delivery trips more efficient.
During the walkthrough, Tomay showcased the possibilities of these advanced smart glasses. He calculated they might increase efficiencies by half an hour or more in an 8- to 10-hour shift. She described how these efficiencies are gained by reducing time spent on redundant activities. This, in turn, allows drivers to locate packages in their vehicles with far greater speed.
“There’s a very specific application here,” – Beryl Tomay
“Additionally, Tomay pointed out that drivers were already putting these prototypes to the test in real-world situations. “We’re testing it at a number of locations with over a dozen delivery service partners and hundreds of drivers across the country,” she stated, emphasizing Amazon’s commitment to improving its delivery processes.
Tomay tried to calm reporters’ concerns by explaining that smart glasses would not be a distraction to drivers. As she put it, “No distractions,” driving home the point that safety is at the core of this innovative technology.
Amazon’s latest foray is into the booming smart glasses market. Big tech companies like Meta have pursued similar innovations with limited success over the past few years. The Amelia glasses are uniquely suited for delivery. They increase operational efficiency throughout Amazon’s massive logistics network.