China’s tech giants race to put AI on delivery riders’ heads

From safety features to hands-free voice tools, JD.com has become the latest platform to launch AI-integrated headwear Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com has launched a smart helmet for food couriers with features enabled by artificial intelligence technology, following similar roll-outs by rivals Alibaba Group Holding and Meituan as they seek to improve rider safety and boost delivery efficiency. The helmet integrates an AI-driven voice assistant with a camera that can “see” the surrounding environment, JD.com’s food delivery unit announced on Monday. The company said the device was designed to minimise distractions in poor weather, when delivery riders, who often travel by electric bike, struggle to use smartphones with wet hands or limited visibility. Instead of pulling over to tap a screen in heavy rain, couriers could use voice commands to manage new orders, communicate with customers and complete other essential tasks while driving, it said in the statement. Beyond relying on online maps, the system provides turn-by-turn voice prompts based on established routes used by experienced riders, helping newer workers navigate unfamiliar areas and avoid delays.

Read the full article at the source →