Have you ever wondered how many times delivery drivers have to switch their gaze between their phone, map, and route as they hit the road every day carrying hundreds of packages? Now imagine if all of this could be done without touching their phone or earbuds with just a pair of smart glasses. Amazon is turning this dream into reality.
Amazon recently announced that it is developing AI-powered smart glasses for its delivery drivers. It is a major shift in delivery. These glasses aim to provide drivers with a “hands-free” experience, eliminating the need to constantly switch their attention between their phone, package, and the surrounding environment.
These special glasses will allow drivers to scan packages, get turn-by-turn directions, and capture proof of delivery. They can do it all without needing to pull out their mobile phone. This system, built with AI and computer vision technology, will display the entire delivery experience right before the driver’s eyes.
When technology guides with eyes
Whenever the driver parks their vehicle at a delivery location, these glasses automatically activate. They show the driver which package is next in the vehicle and the address to which it should be delivered.
When making deliveries to multi-story apartments or complex offices, these glasses provide clear directions on where to turn and where to place packages. This not only saves time but also reduces the chance of accidentally delivering to the wrong address.
Considering both safety and comfort
Amazon has prioritized safety not only for speed but also for safety. The glasses remain inactive while the vehicle is moving, which will prevent the driver from being distracted from the road. Furthermore, the glasses have a dedicated controller that is attached to the driver’s jacket. This controller has operational buttons, swappable batteries, and an emergency button. It allows the driver to immediately call for assistance if needed.
Amazon says these glasses also support prescription and transitional lenses, meaning drivers can work comfortably whether it is day or night, bright or sunny.
Technology Built on Driver Feedback
In developing this system, Amazon didn’t rely solely on engineers but also prioritized the feedback of drivers themselves. Hundreds of delivery associates tested early versions of these glasses and provided feedback.
Nebraska driver Caleb M. said, “I felt safer with these glasses because all the information was right in front of my eyes. I did not have to look at my phone, which kept my focus on the next step.“
Based on this feedback, Amazon further improved the glasses’ design, comfort, display clarity, and battery life.
The Magic of AI in Glasses
The true power of these smart glasses lies in the AI technology within them. It not only provides navigation but also identifies hazards such as the presence of pets, low light conditions, or obstacles.
In the future, this technology will also enable “real-time defect detection,” meaning if a driver accidentally places a package at the wrong address, Glass will immediately alert them.
A New Leap in Efficiency
Amazon Vice President Beryl Tomei stated that these smart glasses can save up to 30 minutes in delivery efficiency. This difference is considered significant in an 8- to 10-hour shift.
She said, “We designed this specifically for drivers. This is not a typical gadget but a device that makes every delivery easier, safer, and smarter.“
A Step Up in the Competition
Amazon isn’t alone in the smart glasses space. Facebook’s parent company, Meta, recently introduced its own “Ray-Ban Smart Glasses,” designed for consumers. However, Amazon’s model has been developed specifically for its delivery network.
While Meta’s glasses focus on providing digital experiences to the general public, Amazon’s “Amelia” glasses are designed to enhance efficiency and safety at work.
A Glimpse of the Future
Amazon is initially testing these glasses in North America and plans to expand them to other regions soon. The company aims to fully automate and streamline the delivery process through AI and machine learning.
In the future, these glasses will not only provide guidance but also make the entire delivery network smarter from the station to the customer’s doorstep.
