Boston Dynamics unveils Stretch, a new robot designed to move boxes in warehouses
- Boston Dynamics just introduced Stretch, a new robot for moving boxes in warehouses.
- The company is best known for creating Spot, the robotic dog.
- Stretch is in a pilot program now, and will make a commercial debut in 2022.
Boston Dynamics, the robotics firm behind Spot the robot dog, just unveiled a new robot. Stretch is designed to work in warehouses moving boxes, with a long robotic arm for moving objects.
It's a "box-moving robot designed to support the growing demand for flexible automation solutions in the logistics industry," Boston Dynamics says. It is the company's first entrance into warehouse automation, although Spot has been used in some warehouses.
Read more: How to ace the job application and hiring process Amazon's billion-dollar self-driving startup
The new robot is optimized for any tasks that require moving boxes, including unloading trucks and eventually building orders. The base can move in different directions to navigate loading docks and maneuver around tight spaces and changing layouts.
Boston Dynamics says Stretch's robotic arm is lightweight and custom-designed with a "smart gripper" that can handle different types of boxes and coverings. Computer vision technology enables Stretch to identify boxes without need specific training for each customer.
The company is looking for pilot customers to test Stretch before it is commercially available in 2022.
Take a look at the new robot in action here.
Do you have a story to share about a retail or restaurant chain? Email this reporter at mmeisenzahl@businessinsider.com.