While many residents believe the AI delivery robots offer a convenient service, some city councilmembers are questioning the rapid growth in the number of robots now sharing local sidewalks.
Michelle FisherThere's a growing debate in Glendale over AI robots used for deliveries. While many residents believe they offer a convenient service, some city councilmembers are questioning the rapid growth in the number of robots now sharing local sidewalks.
The company behind the delivery robots known for their googly-eyed design and unique, individual names -- Serve Robotics -- has deployed 500 robots across 40 Los Angeles neighborhoods. That's up from just two neighborhoods in 2023 Not everyone is happy about the growing fleet.
The city of Glendale recently took steps to impose restrictions on the robots, citing concerns about delivery worker displacement and pedestrian accessibility on crowded sidewalks, according to a"I find them a welcomed addition to Glendale," said resident Shantelle C. But, city leaders may not feel the same way about delivery robots. Last month, the Glendale City Council drafted a moratorium -- which has not yet been passed -- to better regulate the driverless AI-powered bots.
Khinda said she doesn't mind the robots, but admits there are pros and cons.
"Obviously, drivers are not happy. They complain about it," Khinda said.
"But I would say, this is the technology. It's going further. So we have got to move on with it.
"The robot politely asked for help with the message, "Push crosswalk button for me. " It even said "Thank you" before crossing the street. She says she has noticed just how well-mannered the robots are.
"They are always friendly. They aren't rude. They don't smoke," Shantelle C. said.
"They usually are always right where they are supposed to be. They wait patiently.
" The debate happening in Glendale may become a case study on best practices as technology becomes an increasing part of the landscape. "Wow, like, weird. It's kind of crazy that a robot is delivering," said 9-year-old Zinai from Monterey Park. At the end of each shift, the sidewalks are cleared nightly when the robots are loaded up and taken to their depot in North Hollywood.
"Pros and cons to everything, but as technology is moving, you have to just learn how to adapt with it. It sucks, but it is 2026, you know? " Khinda said.
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