Watch the Poor Grubhub Robot ‘Fighting for Its Life’ in an Indiana Snowstorm

Gig work isn't just for us humans anymore. Robots are getting in on the action now, but it's not like you're going to see them speeding down the street with a Wendy's combo meal attached to it.

In truth, I've never seen one before today, and I'm very intrigued. To begin with, Grubhub robots have become a boon to college students, those who work in the city, hotel or resort employees, and guests. In a small space, in terms of geographic area, they make a lot of sense.

And it's not just Ohio State that's climbed on board. When I went looking for examples, I found that campuses across the country are beginning to employ these Grubhub robots.

How Grubhub Robots Work

Grubhub's newest "employees" are equipped with sensors and cameras, which enable them to avoid hitting obstacles during delivery. AI allows the robots to identify crosswalks and traffic signals. It can also scan its vicinity, making sure pedestrians and drivers remain safe.

There are standard features like GPS and batteries, and there's a system that locks the device so that only the customer can open it.

Grubhub Robot in a Snowstorm

During the recent arctic blast that dumped a lot of early snow on about half the country, South Bend, Indiana, home of Notre Dame University, got dealt a wintry blow. And if the robots could utter expletives, this one would. As the storm chaser says, it seems to be "fighting for its life."

While these Grubhub robots are fascinating to watch, the food delivery company isn't replacing humans. Rather, the devices are labeled as augmentations.

A quarter-mile down a city street or across campus? Sure, get the robot. A three-bag order from McDonald's for a home that's 14 miles away? Yep, fire up the Chevy.