Amazon is reportedly developing augmented reality (AR) glasses for its delivery drivers, aiming to enhance efficiency and shave off valuable seconds per delivery. According to sources cited by Reuters, the glasses, internally codenamed Amelia, build upon Amazon’s Echo Frames smart glasses and are designed to streamline navigation and package handling.

A Glimpse Into the Future of Delivery Logistics

The AR glasses are equipped with an embedded display that can guide drivers through buildings, provide turn-by-turn driving directions, and eliminate the need for handheld GPS devices. This hands-free approach could allow drivers to carry more packages simultaneously and reduce delays caused by navigating complex delivery routes. For instance, the glasses might help drivers locate hard-to-find entrances or elevators in sprawling apartment complexes—a common logistical hurdle.

While the idea of AR glasses for delivery isn’t entirely new, Amazon’s integration of the Echo Frames technology represents a significant push toward innovative delivery solutions. However, the project is still in its experimental phase. Sources suggest that development challenges—such as designing lightweight glasses with long-lasting batteries and ensuring comfort for an eight-hour shift—could delay or derail the initiative altogether.

The Roadblocks Ahead

Amazon’s AR glasses project also faces obstacles in gathering comprehensive building and neighborhood data to make the technology effective. Additionally, the company has yet to address concerns about driver fatigue and potential resistance to wearing AR devices throughout their shifts.

Even with these challenges, the company remains optimistic. A spokesperson told Reuters that Amazon is “continuously innovating to create an even safer and better delivery experience for drivers” but declined to confirm the existence of the AR glasses project, stating, “We otherwise don’t comment on our product roadmap.”

Mixed Track Record with Wearable Tech

Amazon’s previous foray into smart glasses with the Echo Frames has been met with tepid reception, selling only 10,000 units since the launch of its third-generation model. Despite this, the potential for AR glasses in delivery services underscores the company’s ongoing efforts to maximize efficiency—at least until robots can take over the job entirely.

For more details, read the full report on Engadget.