Amazon Acquires Rivr: Doorstep Delivery Robot Startup

Amazon has acquired Rivr, an autonomous robotics startup based in Zurich, with a focus on advancing its doorstep delivery capabilities. Rivr is recognized for its unique four-legged, wheeled robots designed to navigate various terrains, including stairs.

The acquisition is expected to accelerate Rivr's vision of integrating General Physical AI into real-world applications like large-scale doorstep delivery. Previously, Rivr had launched a pilot program in Austin with package delivery company Veho, aiming to scale its robot fleet.

This move by Amazon is not entirely new, as the e-commerce giant, through its Industrial Innovation Fund and Bezos Expeditions, had previously invested in Rivr. The startup had successfully raised $25 million in total funding, with its last valuation noted at $100 million.