Your next Uber Eats order might be delivered by a robot instead of a human courier. The company has expanded its autonomous food delivery service to Jersey City, New Jersey, using small electric robots to transport meals from select restaurants.
How Uber Eats Robot Delivery Works
Customers ordering food in downtown Jersey City now have the option to choose between a robot or a traditional courier. Unlike regular deliveries, robot deliveries do not require tips.
Robot Features and Functionality
- Moves at 5 mph
- Equipped with sensors to avoid cars and pedestrians
- Remains locked until it reaches the customer
- Only the intended recipient can unlock it using the Uber Eats app
According to Megan Jensen, who oversees autonomous deliveries at Uber:
“These robots are all electric vehicles, reducing emissions and congestion in the streets.”
Public Reactions to Robot Deliveries
Curiosity and Skepticism
Many residents find the idea fascinating but uncertain. Jessica Rosado, a Jersey City local, expressed concerns:
“I think it’s so cool, but what if it gets stuck somewhere? What happens then?”
Support from City Officials
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop is optimistic about the technology:
“It’s going to take some time for people to get used to them, but this will become common in almost every city.”
Concerns from Food Delivery Workers
While Uber promotes robot delivery as a step forward, some delivery workers fear job losses. One delivery worker voiced frustration:
“No, no, we don’t like it. If the robot is working, we are not working.”
As Uber continues to expand its autonomous delivery services, concerns about job displacement remain a key issue.
Future Expansion Plans
Uber already operates robot deliveries in nearly a dozen U.S. cities, and the company plans to expand further along the East Coast.
