Amazon Acquires Fauna Robotics for Consumer Sprout Robot as FedEx Launches 2-Hour Delivery
Amazon has acquired New York–based Fauna Robotics and its 50-person team to commercialize Sprout, a 42-inch humanoid robot for consumer applications, directly competing with Tesla in home robotics. FedEx has introduced SameDay Local service with two-hour windows via OneRail’s network of over 1,000 providers, intensifying delivery competition.
1. Acquisition of Fauna Robotics
Amazon acquired New York–based Fauna Robotics and its 50-person team to integrate into its Personal Robotics Group. The startup’s Sprout humanoid robot stands 42 inches tall, can walk, interact, and perform household tasks. Amazon plans to commercialize Sprout for consumer use, marking a direct challenge to Tesla’s Optimus program and expanding its home robotics portfolio.
2. Launch of FedEx SameDay Local Service
FedEx has launched SameDay Local, offering two-hour delivery windows or end-of-day drop-offs at checkout, leveraging OneRail’s network of over 1,000 last-mile carriers. Orders are managed through intelligent orchestration that assigns drivers automatically and provides live tracking from pickup to delivery. The service aims to give retailers flexible fulfillment options, intensifying competition with Amazon’s Prime delivery speeds.