Amazon upgrades Proteus warehouse robot to accept spoken commands instead of code

Amazon announced a new version of Proteus, its fully autonomous warehouse robot, that workers can direct using natural language rather than specialized software. The company plans to deploy the system in Europe during the first half of 2027.

The upgraded Proteus can operate across much larger areas than current models, which are limited to dock areas. The new system can transport containers as they arrive on site, move them between workstations, and assist employees across fulfillment centers and delivery sites.

Amazon says it is "creating new jobs alongside these technologies" and claims to have hired hundreds of thousands of employees globally since introducing robotics into its operations. The company states its robots are designed to support workers and streamline operations, rather than replace workers.

The new Proteus is currently being piloted in Amazon's labs. Amazon also plans to expand Vulcan, a touch-sensitive robot, and a collaborative tote-handling system first piloted in Barcelona, to more sites across Europe in the coming year.