Amazon has acquired Rivr, a Swiss robotics startup spun out of ETH Zurich’s Robotics Systems Lab in 2023. The deal, valued at an undisclosed amount, marks Amazon’s push into automated doorstep delivery via four-legged robots designed for last-mile logistics. Rivr’s co-founder and CEO, Marko Bjelonic, emphasized the acquisition’s role in advancing "General Physical AI" through real-world deployment. Bezos Expeditions, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ family office, had previously backed Rivr with a $22m seed round in 2024, signaling early interest in the firm’s tech.

Rivr’s robots, which navigate stairs and deliver packages directly to customers, address gaps in urban delivery efficiency. The acquisition aligns with Amazon’s broader strategy to integrate robotics and AI at scale. European robotics startups saw a 130% funding surge in 2025, with startups securing €1.6bn last year, per Sifted data. ETH Zurich, a hub for robotics innovation, has spawned firms like ANYbotics (industrial inspection) and Mimic Robotics (humanoid hands), underscoring the region’s ecosystem.

The deal highlights Amazon’s growing focus on hardware-driven AI solutions. By integrating Rivr’s stair-climbing robots, Amazon aims to reduce reliance on human couriers for final-mile deliveries. Analysts note this could reshape last-mile logistics, particularly in dense urban areas. Rivr’s tech, developed alongside ETH Zurich’s academic rigor, positions Amazon to compete with rivals like Starship Technologies and Nuro in the autonomous delivery space.

Amazon’s Rivr acquisition accelerates its robotic delivery ambitions, merging ETH Zurich’s academic expertise with Bezos’ long-term vision for AI-powered logistics.