GXO Partners with Apptronik to Explore Use of Apollo Humanoid Robot in Warehouses

GXO, one of the world’s largest logistics providers, has recently announced a groundbreaking partnership with robot manufacturer Apptronik. The collaboration aims to explore the use of Apptronik’s Apollo humanoid robot in warehouses, revolutionizing the way tasks are carried out in distribution centers.

What sets the Apollo robot apart is its ability to operate on swappable batteries, offering the highest operational time of any humanoid robot currently available. Powered by linear actuators that mimic human muscles, Apollo provides a full range of mobility, making it a versatile and efficient tool for warehouse operations.

Standing at 5’8″ tall and capable of carrying 55 pounds of weight, Apollo can work directly with people thanks to its unique force control architecture and flexible safety zone perimeter. This feature ensures a safe and collaborative working environment for both humans and robots.

GXO’s Chief Automation Officer, Adrian Stoch, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that Apollo has the potential to add value to distribution centers by reducing repetitive work, improving safety, and allowing associates to focus on higher-value-added activities. The companies are currently evaluating the robot’s performance in a lab setting before deploying it to a U.S. distribution center.

This collaboration marks the second humanoid partnership for GXO, a leader in warehouse automation. In 2023, GXO increased its total units of warehouse automation by about 50% year over year, showcasing its commitment to innovation and efficiency in the logistics industry.

Apptronik’s CEO, Jeff Cardenas, highlighted the company’s mission to build versatile robots that can handle a variety of tasks in real-world applications. Apollo’s design and development, which drew inspiration from NASA’s Valkyrie project, aim to create a scalable automation solution that will revolutionize logistics operations.

With plans to expand Apollo’s presence beyond warehouses into industries such as construction, oil and gas, electronics production, retail, and elder care, Apptronik is poised to introduce the next generation of robots that will transform the way we live and work. Apollo’s mass manufacturability, high payloads, and focus on safety make it a game-changer in the field of robotics.

As GXO and Apptronik continue to push the boundaries of automation and robotics, the future of warehouse operations looks brighter than ever. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting partnership and the impact of Apollo’s innovative technology on the logistics industry.