WALMART has implemented futuristic technology into its distribution warehouses, in a move that follows rival Amazon.
Fans of the brand say it’s a “robotic revolution” — and it’s not the only modern advancement America’s biggest supermarket is making.
Walmart is deploying 19 autonomous forklifts at four distribution centers across the country.
Forklifts can unload pallets from trucks and transport them to an automatic storage and retrieval system.
They use AI technology to “see” pallets and move them precisely without the need for human assistance.
However, associates were trained to operate the forklifts when needed and “become drivers – considering the best and most efficient way to unload trailers based on their experience,” distribution center general manager Maurice Gray said in an interview to the FoxBusiness.
The forklifts were manufactured by Fox Robotics, an automation company based in Austin, Texas.
They can complete tasks three times more efficiently than a human forklift operator, according to the company.
Walmart continues to use technologies like AI to stay ahead of its rivals like Amazon.
Amazon announced the arrival of robots for distribution centers in 2022.
Walmart fans are surprised by the futuristic nature of the company’s behind-the-scenes operations.
“The robot revolution is beginning,” wrote one in Facebook.
THE FUTURE IS HERE
Automated forklifts are far from the only futuristic change Walmart has implemented recently.
In January, 1.8 million customers could now receive their online orders via drone.
Agile airborne technology means certain products are delivered in just 30 minutes.
The service is currently only available in select areas, including Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas.
However, customers have complained about the noise from the drones.
One likened it to a “swarm of bees in the neighborhood” after capturing his delivery on video.
Rival Amazon also uses drone technology to deliver certain orders.
The service, known as Prime Air, is available in Lockeford, California, and College Station, Texas.
Walmart has angered shoppers with a new self-checkout rule.
And see if it’s worth signing up for Walmart+.
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