July 17, 2025, Waltham, MA Boston Dynamics has officially launched Stretch 2, the second-generation warehouse automation robot designed to streamline box handling and pallet loading. The robot uses enhanced AI vision, smarter spatial awareness and upgraded suction hardware to autonomously unload or load trucks and containers in under 45 minutes.

Stretch 2 is now operational in over 40 logistics hubs across the U.S., including facilities operated by FedEx, Walmart and DHL, with plans for global expansion by Q1 2026.

Key Features and Capabilities

• 360-degree depth vision using LiDAR and neural inference cameras
• Real-time decision making with onboard NVIDIA Jetson Orin compute stack
• Payload handling up to 50 pounds per item with suction gripper arm
• AI motion planner reduces path time by 27 percent compared to Stretch 1
• Battery runtime of 24 hours with auto-charging dock

Boston Dynamics says Stretch 2 can automate 95 percent of warehouse loading and unloading tasks without needing pre-mapped environments or human retraining.

Deployment and Industry Response

Walmart’s logistics division reported a 38 percent improvement in truck turnaround time during its 3-month pilot of Stretch 2 in California. FedEx cited reduced worker injuries and increased overnight throughput at its Memphis facility.

“Stretch 2 sets a new standard for real-world warehouse automation,” said Robert Playter, CEO of Boston Dynamics. “It adapts to variable conditions and packaging types in real time.”

Integration and ROI

Stretch 2 integrates with most warehouse management systems (WMS) through a cloud dashboard and RESTful APIs. It also features a fallback manual control mode accessible through a tablet for safety and compliance procedures.

Boston Dynamics estimates the robot pays for itself in under 15 months for high-volume logistics operations, citing lower labor costs and reduced physical strain on workers.

What’s Next

Stretch 2 units are being manufactured at the Hyundai Robotics plant in South Korea and shipped globally. Boston Dynamics is also working on Stretch Mini, a compact version for smaller e-commerce hubs, expected in late 2026.

Conclusion

Stretch 2 represents the latest leap in AI-powered robotics for the supply chain sector. As warehouses face labor shortages and rising order volumes, autonomous systems like this are becoming essential for efficiency, safety and scalability.

Sources: Boston Dynamics, Supply Chain Dive, Reuters Technology