By Muhammad Zulhusni
Gather AI is updating its warehouse inventory management technology, integrating the US-made, Starling 2 Logis drones (powered by ModalAI’s VOXL 2 autopilot), into its existing offering of DJI drones.
The addition is expected in Q2 2025 and is designed to improve efficiency and flexibility in warehouse inventory tracking.
Automation is increasingly used in warehousing operations to address issues such as labour shortages, rising operational costs, and the ever-present need for higher efficiency. AI-powered drones have emerged as an important tool to optimise inventory tracking, minimise manual processes, and reduce errors. The autonomous drones are equipped with computer vision and AI, and can capture real-time inventory data without requiring GPS, WiFi, or infrastructure modifications\.
According to industry estimates, the warehouse automation market may reach $41 billion in value by 2027, with AI, robotics, and drones playing an increasing role in improving warehouse operations. Reports suggest that automated drones can increase inventory efficiency by up to 50% and lower the labour costs of manual stocktaking.
Why automation matters
Warehouses are under pressure to respond to the growth in the e-commerce industry and supply chain disruptions. Traditional inventory tracking methods are labour-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to human error. AI-powered drones can provide real-time stock visibility and the prevention of inventory discrepancies. Automation lets warehouse workers shift their focus from manual cycle counting to higher-value tasks.
Comparison of Starling 2 Logis and DJI drones
Gather AI states the introduction of Starling 2 Logis drones brings several improvements over existing DJI drones, particularly in warehouses with space constraints and high inventory turnover. Some key differences include:
- Navigation in narrower aisles – DJI drones can operate in aisles as narrow as 5 feet 4 inches, whereas Starling 2 Logis drones can manoeuvre in spaces as tight as 4 feet 5 inches.
- Faster inventory scanning – DJI drones can scan around 900 pallets per hour. Starling 2 Logis drones increase the rate to 1,500 pallets per hour.
- Advanced obstacle detection – Starling 2 Logis drones use AI-based obstacle avoidance.
- Enhanced image and depth data processing – The newer models include inferred case counting and location occupancy estimation; beneficial for double deep racking storage.
Applications across different industries
AI-powered drones are implemented across various industries that require high-precision inventory tracking. While the core functionality remains the same, different sectors use the technology for specific needs:
- Food & beverage – Inventory management involves tracking expiration dates, lot codes, and storage conditions to meet regulatory and safety requirements.
- Retail distribution – Accurate stock levels help maintain supply chain efficiency, ensuring that products are available and avoiding overstocking.
- Manufacturing – AI-powered drones help track raw materials, spare parts, and finished goods.
- Third-party logistics (3PL) – Companies managing inventory for multiple clients require automated stock audits and efficient tracking solutions to optimise warehouse space.
Challenges in implementing AI-powered drones
Despite their advantages, AI-powered drones come with challenges that need to be addressed for integration into warehouse operations:
- Initial setup costs – Deploying AI-driven drones requires investment in infrastructure and workforce training.
- Workforce adaptation – Employees need training to work alongside AI-powered systems, which may require changes to warehouse workflows.
- Regulatory concerns – Drone use in warehouses raises data privacy and safety considerations, requiring compliance with industry regulations.
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between technology providers, warehouse operators, and regulatory bodies to ensure a smooth transition to more automated inventory management.
