Amazon now equips its Proteus warehouse robot with conversational AI, letting staff issue commands in plain language. The heavy‑duty unit, shaped like a Roomba, can haul bulky carts across fulfillment centers. VP Scott Dresser says workers tell it what to do; it decides priority, route, and timing for day‑to‑day operations. It also handles longer distances.

Unlike earlier models that required custom software, the updated Proteus runs on an AI core that interprets natural language. It can now operate beyond dock areas, moving containers between workstations and assisting employees. Amazon plans a European rollout in the first half of 2027, while piloting the system in its labs for future operations across global centers by 2029 and increase productivity.

Amazon claims the new AI‑powered Proteus will free staff to focus on higher‑skill tasks such as inventory flow and quality control, while improving safety and cutting repetitive labor. The company also plans to add a touch‑sensitive Vulcan robot and a new tote‑handling model called Stark. Amazon counters recent layoffs by announcing a 25,000‑person workforce expansion in Europe, stressing that robotics has already supported hiring of hundreds of thousands worldwide today.