FedEx-CIO Rob Carter has opened up about the company's automation plans. It is currently working on an application that will allow users hands-free delivery of a package. Delivery drones will not be deployed by the courier company in the short term.
To the MIT Technology Review, Carter talks about the development of the app Alexa. This application responds to users' voices. For example, when the user says, 'Alexa, prepare a shipment', the app takes them through the entire process prior to the shipment. When the parcel is ready for shipment, the app orders a truck to come and pick it up.
Platooning
FedEx, meanwhile, is also exploring how it can further automate its transport operations. To do so, it is working with startup Peloton Technology, which is developing technology for semi-automated platooning.
Delivery drone
Carter expects less from the deployment of delivery drones in the short term. This is mainly due to the limited capacity of the small aircraft: the drones can only carry a few kilos, fly short distances and are subject to strict regulations. The Chief Information Officer does believe in delivery robots or fixed-wing drones (drones that resemble planes) that fly between two standard destinations.
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