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There’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 growing 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 report from the Los Angeles Times.
“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.
“There are so many of them now,” said Pawandeep Khinda, the owner of All India Cafe.
Khinda said she doesn’t mind the robots, but admits there are pros and cons.
“Obviously, drivers are not happy. They obviously 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.”
In downtown Glendale, Eyewitness News followed along as robot “Anderson” made a delivery.
The robot politely asked for help with the message, “Push crosswalk button for me?” It even said “Thank you” before crossing the street.
“I would say I get deliveries from a robot probably once a week,” said Shantelle C.
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.
“I love when you see children who see them passing by,” Shantelle C. said.
“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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