Amazon Hires Covariant’s Founders and Key Team Members
Amazon (AMZN) Amazon expands robotics capabilities and has announced the hiring of Covariant’s founders—Pieter Abbeel, Peter Chen, and Rocky Duan—along with approximately 25% of Covariant’s workforce. The tech giant has also secured a non-exclusive license to leverage Covariant’s cutting-edge robotic foundation models.
Covariant’s Innovations in Robotic AI
Covariant is renowned for developing advanced AI models designed for robotics, aiming to enhance the functionality of robotic arms used in warehouse tasks such as bin picking. As Peter Chen shared with TechCrunch earlier this year, Covariant’s technology is akin to a “large language model, but for robots,” focusing on enabling robots to perform complex tasks more effectively.
Amazon’s Strategic Move
Joseph Quinlivan, Vice President of Amazon Fulfillment Technologies & Robotics, commented on the acquisition, saying, “Integrating Covariant’s AI technology into our robotic fleet will enhance performance and deliver tangible value to our operations and customers.”
A Trend in Tech Acquisitions
This move is reminiscent of Amazon’s previous acquisition strategy involving the AI startup Adept in June. The approach, described by The Verge as a “reverse acquihire,” allows tech giants to acquire new talent and technology while circumventing some antitrust concerns. Instead of outright purchasing startups, these companies opt for hiring and licensing agreements.
Covariant’s Future Directions
Despite the acquisition, Covariant will continue to operate independently under the leadership of Ted Stinson, who steps in as CEO, replacing Rocky Duan. The company remains dedicated to deploying its “Covariant Brain” technology across various industries, including apparel, health and beauty, grocery, and pharmaceuticals.
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