Amazon is reportedly developing smart eyeglasses designed to assist its delivery drivers with navigation, as revealed by a recent Reuters Exclusive article. The innovative eyewear, known internally as “Amelia,” aims to provide turn-by-turn directions on a small embedded screen, guiding drivers to their destinations more efficiently and potentially saving valuable time on each delivery.
According to sources who spoke to Reuters under the condition of anonymity, these glasses would allow drivers to navigate without relying on handheld GPS devices, thereby freeing their hands to carry more packages. This development is part of Amazon’s broader strategy to reduce delivery costs and improve margins in the face of stiff competition from retailers like Walmart, which has also been enhancing its e-commerce operations.
The glasses are expected to help Amazon manage the challenging “last mile” of deliveries, which involves navigating through neighborhoods and overcoming obstacles. As the article reads, the project underscores Amazon’s commitment to innovation in its logistics operations. An Amazon spokesperson commented, “We are continuously innovating to create an even safer and better delivery experience for drivers,” but declined to provide further details.
However, the development of these smart glasses is not without its challenges. Reuters explains that Amazon is still working on creating a battery that can last a full eight-hour shift while remaining lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear. Additionally, gathering comprehensive data on every possible delivery route remains a significant hurdle. Despite these issues, the potential for increased efficiency and reduced delivery times could make the glasses a valuable tool for Amazon’s logistics network.
The success of this initiative could also lead to a future iteration of Amazon’s Echo Frames, potentially incorporating similar technology. While current sales of the Echo Frames have been underwhelming, with fewer than 10,000 units sold according to sources, Amazon remains hopeful for future advancements.
As Reuters explains, if the smart glasses meet Amazon’s high standards, they could be rolled out by mid-2026, marking a significant step forward in the company’s efforts to streamline delivery processes and stay ahead of competitors.