Amazon has announced the development of a novel warehouse robot, dubbed Vulcan, which reportedly possesses the capability to "feel" certain items it handles.

The two-armed Vulcan, capable of manipulating goods within Amazon's warehouse storage compartments, employs force sensors to detect contact with objects. One arm reconfigures items within a compartment, while the second arm, fitted with a camera and suction cup, retrieves items.

Amazon states that Vulcan underwent training using tactile data, such as force and touch feedback, enabling it to select approximately 75% of Amazon's inventory, and that it possesses the capacity for continuous self-improvement. The robot has been implemented in Spokane, Washington, and Hamburg, Germany, where it has fulfilled half a million orders thus far.

Vulcan represents the most recent enhancement to Amazon's extensive network of warehouse robotics, deployed in vast numbers to manage customer orders throughout its worldwide logistics centers. Despite accusations from critics that Amazon's integration of robotics aims to supplant its human workforce, the company contends that these technologies, including Vulcan, primarily contribute to a safer work environment within its warehouses.