The 'Amelia' prototype aims to boost efficiency and safety with hands-free navigation and scanning
Amazon has announced it’s developing a new pair of AI-powered smart glasses designed specifically to assist its delivery drivers.
The prototype, ‘Amelia,’ aims to streamline workflows and enhance safety by displaying crucial information directly in the driver’s line of sight, reducing the need to constantly look down at handheld devices.
The glasses use cameras, computer vision, and AI built into the device to show useful information over the real world. When a driver reaches a delivery spot, Amelia can automatically turn on, help find the right package in the van via scanning, provide walking directions to the drop-off point, and take photos as proof of delivery—all hands-free.
Amazon estimates this system could save drivers up to 30 minutes per shift by reducing distractions and speeding up repetitive tasks.
Each driver connects the headset to a controller built into their delivery vest, which contains operational controls, a swappable battery, and an emergency safety button. The design supports prescription and transitional lenses, and also includes an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the display when vehicle movement is detected.
What does the future hold for Amazon’s glasses?
Amazon is currently testing the Amelia prototype with hundreds of delivery drivers across North America, with plans for further tweaks and potential expansion.
Future versions are also slated to include features such as real-time hazard detection (alerting drivers to pets or low-light conditions) and package identification.
The Amelia glasses are part of Amazon’s big investment in AI for its logistics. This includes new tools like the ‘Blue Jay’ robotic arm for warehouses and the ‘Eluna’ AI system to improve operations.
While currently focused solely on its workforce, Amazon hasn’t ruled out exploring consumer-facing smart glasses technology down the line.
