The Robo Drop

The huge distribution company is busy testing glasses to help their delivery drivers with their hectic task. The extra piece of kit is expected to improve several parts of the delivery process. For starters they would help indicate which packages are concerned when the driver arrives at a certain address. No more switching to the tablet or cell phone but all the necessary data in the field of vision from the moment you arrive. As the driver dives into the back of the van the glasses will indicate where the needed parcels are placed. Even then the support provided doesn't end. Where the driver currently leaves behind their navigation instructions in the van and has to rely on a cell phone to get route guidance to the correct building, the smart glasses on his nose will provide turn by turn input on how to get where he needs to be.

While the article is not about robots, it seems like us humans will slowly turn into cyborgs. Still it seems like there are several advantages if this technology turns out to be comfortable enough and the users get the hang of it. Scanning for information inside the screen on your nose is not ideal but it's a lot safer than burying your head in a tablet or phone. At least you will notice things going on in your peripheral vision. Given that the glasses are equipped with two cameras they will also be able to help adapt to unusual conditions. If you have not noticed the kids bike on the driveway, chances are the assistant you are wearing has.

Let's not get too lyrical either. Amazon is a quintessential hard nosed American company. I'm pretty sure there is a good business case somewhere in there. Getting packages faster and safer to their destination just makes good sense...unless it's just another stressor and excuse to squeeze extra performance out of their delivery hero's.