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The Future IRL: Deliveries via robot
Your online delivery habit is facing a growing problem: the rising number of packages needing delivery, combined with a projected deficit in truck drivers (PDF). But that's the issue a company like Starship Technologies is trying to solve. It just started testing a delivery robot in US cities (though the company has been overseas for a few years, already) and is hoping both its design and cost win over any skeptics worried about a robot that knows where they live and what kind of food they like. Don't miss the next episode of Future IRL on March 7th, when we'll be looking at the future of virtual reality.
Ikea to trial smaller UK stores for picking up online orders
Most Ikea stores are massive, bustling places located far from the high street and built-up urban areas. Visiting one isn't a problem if you have a large car and a few hours to spare -- but for many people, at least one of those can be difficult to come by. To help out, the king of flat pack furniture is opening a new, smaller store in Norwich. Here customers will be able to speak with home furnishing experts, see a selection of furniture and, most importantly, pick up orders they've made online or in-store. The new "Order and Collection Point" concept is similar to Amazon's pickup lockers and Argos' click-and-collect stores. The hope is that these smaller, local establishments will be more convenient than trekking to an out-of-town warehouse or waiting for home delivery. Of course, if you're buying a bed or anything else that's a substantial size, you'll still need to find a way to take it home...
