A strategic shift in the robotics business model
Serve Robotics has announced a strategic move aimed at democratizing robot delivery services by launching a new developer portal (AV Delivery Developer Portal). This platform allows independent engineers, small businesses, and even AI agents to gain direct access to the company's fleet of 2,000 sidewalk delivery robots.
This step comes at a time when the company is seeking to reduce its reliance on major delivery apps like Uber Eats and expand the use of its robots beyond traditional peak food delivery hours. Through this portal, users can send delivery requests directly via an API, opening the door to diverse use cases including transporting spare parts, office-to-office deliveries, or even peer-to-peer exchanges.
What is changing in practice?
The primary value of this change lies in bypassing the high commissions charged by traditional delivery apps, which typically range from 15% to 30% of the order value. Thanks to direct integration, local shops such as bakeries, flower shops, and pharmacies can integrate robotic delivery services into their own websites and payment systems at a significantly lower cost.
Technically, developers define the pickup and drop-off coordinates, while Serve Robotics' infrastructure handles obstacle avoidance, route planning, and remote supervision. The company's CEO, Ali Kashani, confirmed that the robots will treat requests from external developers with the same priority as major commercial orders, without any discrimination.
Limitations and security considerations
Despite the technical openness, deployment operations remain under strict control; all access requests will be subject to manual approval by company staff to prevent any illegal or dangerous use. The company also clarified that legal liability for damaged or stolen goods will depend on the specific partnership terms between the parties.
This move confirms the company's direction toward building an independent platform, especially following news of the non-renewal of its partnership with Uber Eats. This reflects a growing desire in the smart transportation sector for independence from major digital intermediaries and a reliance on open software solutions that increase the efficiency of physical asset utilization.