Amazon Robotics deployed Cardinal, a robotic arm that uses AI and computer vision to select individual packages from a mixed pile, read their shipping labels, and place them into the correct carts for loading onto delivery trucks. Amazon confirmed deployment in fulfillment centers starting in 2024.

Cardinal was announced in June 2022 and uses advanced AI and computer vision to 'singulate' packages—picking one package out of a pile—then reads the label and routes the package to the appropriate outbound cart. According to Amazon's 10-year robotics retrospective, Cardinal converts batch-based manual work into continuous, automated work and reduces the risk of employee injuries from lifting packages up to 50 pounds. Cardinal works in conjunction with the Proteus autonomous mobile robot, which then moves the loaded carts to the loading dock.