GXO Tests AI Humanoid Robots in Warehouses to Boost Efficiency and Ease Labour
Image Source: GXO
GXO Logistics, a global supply chain company, is testing AI-driven humanoid robots from Agility Robotics, Apptronik, and Reflex Robotics to boost warehouse efficiency. These machines, including Agility’s “Digit” robot—already moving containers in a Spanx warehouse in Atlanta—rely on artificial intelligence to perform tasks traditionally done by humans. This pilot program highlights AI’s growing role in logistics, though challenges like precision and flexibility remain.
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AI at Work in the Robots
The robots’ capabilities stem from advanced AI, which allows them to navigate, identify objects, and carry out tasks. Digit, for instance, uses AI to walk on two legs and transport containers, processing real-time data to avoid obstacles and place items accurately. Apptronik’s “Apollo” and Reflex Robotics’ models, being tested with other GXO clients like a tech firm and a sports apparel brand, also depend on AI to adapt to warehouse environments. GXO is running these trials in real settings to refine the AI, with only a handful of robots—like two Digit units—currently active across its 1,000+ warehouses.
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Challenges for AI Development
Despite their promise, the robots’ AI isn’t perfect. Dexterity—handling objects with finesse—and versatility—switching between tasks—are still limited. Digit, for example, sticks to one repetitive job rather than tackling varied duties. GXO notes that enhancing the AI to overcome these hurdles is a work in progress, and scaling up for broader use isn’t yet feasible. This shows AI in logistics is advancing, but it’s not fully mature.
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The Impact
For everyday consumers, AI-powered humanoid robots in warehouses could lead to faster deliveries and potentially lower costs by enhancing the efficiency of goods movement. Employment is a key consideration: GXO Logistics asserts that these robots, such as Agility Robotics’ Digit, complement workers rather than replace them, reducing the burden of repetitive tasks like tote-moving. Yet, as AI advances, some warehouse jobs may evolve to require technical skills or diminish over time, affecting employment dynamics. This development is significant because GXO’s use of AI-driven robots could influence broader trends in how intelligent machines transform logistics and labour.
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Source: GXO, Business Insider
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