Amazon begins trials of Amelia smart glasses for delivery drivers

Amazon on Wednesday unveiled and began trials of AI powered smart glasses designed to assist its delivery drivers, demonstrating the devices at a distribution center in California and saying they are being tested with drivers across North America. The glasses are intended to provide hands free, heads up information such as which package to pick, turn by turn walking directions to a doorstep, and proof of delivery capture without the driver having to use a phone.

The headset uses cameras, computer vision and geospatial software to create a small field of view display that Amazon said activates automatically when a driver parks. The company described a workflow in which the glasses guide drivers to the correct package inside a vehicle, then give step by step walking navigation to the precise drop off point, including within multiunit buildings or complex business entrances. Amazon said the system can also surface hazards and, in future versions, may detect misplaced deliveries, notice animals in yards, and adapt to low light.

The glasses pair with a small controller mounted in a delivery vest that contains operational controls, a swappable battery pack and a dedicated emergency...