Amazon Acquires Rivr To Develop Robots For Last-Meter Delivery

(MENAFN- Robotics & Automation News) Amazon has reportedly acquired Swiss robotics startup Rivr Technologies, a company developing autonomous robots designed to deliver packages from vans to customers' doorsteps.

The e-commerce giant has not issued a formal press release about the deal. However, it confirmed the acquisition in communications to delivery partners, saying it had“recently acquired Rivr”, according to reports by Euronews and other media outlets. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Rivr, an ETH Zurich spinout, develops quadruped delivery robots capable of navigating real-world environments, including steps, curbs, and uneven terrain. The machines are designed to accompany human drivers and handle the final stage of delivery – often considered one of the most time-consuming and labor-intensive parts of logistics operations.

Amazon indicated the technology could help move packages from delivery vehicles directly to customers' doors, effectively addressing what is sometimes described as the“last few meters” of delivery.

The acquisition builds on an existing relationship. Rivr had previously attracted backing linked to Amazon's investment ecosystem and had already conducted pilot deployments in real-world delivery scenarios.

The move signals a renewed push by Amazon into last-mile robotics after earlier efforts, such as its Scout delivery robot, were discontinued. Unlike those earlier sidewalk-based systems, Rivr's approach focuses on hybrid human-robot workflows, with robots assisting drivers rather than operating fully independently.

More broadly, the deal reflects growing industry interest in applying so-called“physical AI” to unstructured, real-world environments – extending automation beyond warehouses and into everyday logistics operations.

Amazon has not provided further details on integration plans or deployment timelines.

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