AI robot dogs deliver fast food in Zurich, as Just Eat pilots new technology

Delivery robots are about to become a regular sight on the streets of Zurich. More specifically, robo-delivery-dogs, which are being deployed to deliver fast food from a local restaurant named Zekis World.

This is a pilot programme by food delivery marketplace Just Eat Takeaway.com and its collaborator, the Swiss robotics company RIVR. 

The wheeled-legged ‘robo-dogs’ are equipped with Physical AI and can climb stairs, manoeuvre obstacles like rubbish cans or grass, and move around pedestrians, vehicles and cyclists.

The dogs can ‘walk’ at speeds of around 15km per hour, and can withstand rain, snow, high heat, and wind. Every delivery is monitored in real time, and the robo-delivery-dog can be controlled remotely.

Just Eat Takeaway.com said that they were the first on-demand delivery service to pilot wheeled-legged hybrid robotics equipped with Physical AI in Europe.

RIVR intends to deploy the robots to bring parcels, goods, groceries, and fresh meals in future.

“We plan to introduce more robots to other European cities later this year, with potential expansion into retail and convenience stores,” the developer said in a statement. 

Marko Bjelonic, Chief Executive Officer of RIVR said, “Our collaboration with Just Eat Takeaway.com is a glimpse into a future where automation blends naturally into our cities, helping people get what they need, when they need it. Physical AI allows our robots to understand and adapt to the real world.”

Just Eat has already been piloting innovative delivery options, including a drone-delivery service in Ireland, in partnership with drone operator Manna Drones Ltd. 

Watch the video above to see how the robo-delivery-dog works.