Amazon Acquires Key AI Talent from Covariant
A Strategic Move to Enhance Robotic Capabilities
Table of Contents
In a significant development for the robotics industry, Amazon has announced the acquisition of key personnel and technology from Covariant, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) startup specializing in robotic automation. This strategic move signals Amazon’s commitment to advancing its own robotics capabilities and further integrating AI into its operations.
Amazon has secured the talents of Covariant’s founders – Pieter Abbeel, Peter Chen, and Rocky Duan – along with a substantial portion of the startup’s workforce. Furthermore, Amazon has obtained an exclusive license to utilize Covariant’s foundational robotic AI models. This acquisition grants Amazon access to cutting-edge technology that could revolutionize warehouse operations and beyond.
Covariant’s Vision: A “ChatGPT for Robots”
Earlier this year, Peter Chen, Covariant’s co-founder, spoke with TheTrendyType about the company’s ambitious goal of creating an AI system akin to ChatGPT, but specifically designed for robots. This ”robotic language model” would enable robots to understand and execute complex tasks in dynamic environments, particularly within warehouses where bin picking and other repetitive operations are commonplace.
Amazon’s Investment in Robotics
This acquisition aligns with Amazon’s ongoing investment in robotics technology. Joseph Quinlivan, Vice President of Amazon Fulfillment Technologies & Robotics, emphasized the strategic importance of integrating Covariant’s AI expertise into Amazon’s existing robotic fleet. He stated that this integration would enhance robot performance and deliver tangible value to customers.
A “Reverse Acquihire” Strategy?
This deal echoes a similar pattern observed in June when Amazon acquired the founders of AI startup Adept, granting them access to new talent and expertise without a full-scale acquisition. As reported by TheTrendyType, this approach, dubbed a “reverse acquihire,” allows tech giants facing antitrust scrutiny to acquire valuable assets discreetly through strategic hiring and licensing agreements.
Covariant’s Future Trajectory
Despite the acquisition of key personnel, Covariant will continue its operations under the leadership of Ted Stinson as CEO. Tianhao Zhang will remain involved in guiding the company’s future direction. Covariant has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering its ”Covariant Mind” platform to various industries, including apparel, healthcare and beauty, grocery, and pharmaceuticals.
