Amazon Patents Delivery Drone That Recognizes Gestures and Voice Commands

Amazon has filed a patent for a delivery drone capable of recognizing both voice commands and human gestures, according to GeekWire. The patent application describes a system where users can guide the drone using gestures, such as indicating where it should land, where to drop a package, or signaling it to fly away.

To interpret human intent, the drone’s software will analyze gestures in combination with voice commands. For example, if a person loudly shouts and waves their arms above their head as if to shoo the drone away, the drone will interpret this as a signal not to approach. Additionally, voice recognition will allow the drone to confirm the recipient’s identity before delivering a package.

The drone will be equipped with one or more light and depth sensors, a microphone, and cameras—including night vision cameras—to help it navigate and interact with users.