Amazon launches AI warehouse robot as part of $12 billion European expansion

• The new Proteus robot marks a shift in human-robot interaction, allowing workers to give conversational instructions while the robot determines priority, routing, and timing autonomously, expanding beyond the current model's dock-only operations
• Amazon plans to launch over 25 sub-same-day delivery sites across Europe in 2026, with same-day fresh grocery delivery now available in 2,300+ U.S. cities and expanding to Japan and other countries
• The investment is part of Amazon's broader AI infrastructure spending spree, with the company forecasting capital expenditures to jump over 50% to $200 billion in 2026

Amazon Unveils AI Warehouse Robot in $11.6 Billion European Expansion

Amazon announced an upgraded AI-powered Proteus warehouse robot and a €10 billion ($11.6 billion) investment in its European fulfillment network at its Dartford, England facility on June 4.

Key Developments:

The next-generation Proteus robot responds to conversational AI prompts and autonomously determines task priorities, routes, and timing. Unlike the current model deployed at 25 U.S. sites (limited to dock areas moving carts up to 400 kg), the new version will operate across entire warehouse floors. European deployment is scheduled for the first half of 2027.

Amazon also showcased two additional robotics systems: STARK, a tote-handling system piloted in Barcelona that will expand to 15 European sites by 2027, and Vulcan, the company's first touch-enabled robot.

Delivery Expansion:

The e-commerce giant plans to launch over 25 sub-same-day delivery sites across Europe in 2026, including in Britain and Germany. Its ultra-fast delivery service will expand to Manchester and Birmingham. Same-day fresh grocery delivery, currently available in 2,300+ U.S. cities and parts of Tokyo, will expand further in Japan and other markets.

Broader Context:

Amazon's Alexa+ AI assistant will launch in 10 additional countries in 2027. In February, the company forecast capital expenditures exceeding $200 billion for 2026—a more than 50% increase—reflecting aggressive AI infrastructure investment alongside industry peers.

The announcements underscore Amazon's commitment to automation and AI-driven logistics as it seeks competitive advantages in delivery speed and operational efficiency across its global fulfillment network.