Amazon unveils ‘Jetsons’-like roaming robot for the home
Amazon’s new robot, called Astro, doesn’t cook or clean like the animated character from “The Jetsons,” but it can alert you of intruders.
[Sept 28, 2021: Joseph Pisani]
Renderings have been released of an eye-opening Las Vegas resort that takes the form of a giant moon (CREDIT: Moon World Resorts)
Amazon's new robot can hear, see and follow you around the the home, but its no Rosey the Robot.
Amazon's version, called Astro, doesn't cook or clean like the animated character from "The Jetsons," but it can check if you left the stove on while you're out or send an alert if someone enters the house it doesn't recognize.
It uses cameras, sensors and artificial technology to avoid walls or dogs, and Amazon said Astro will only get smarter as time goes on. It does do some housework: Snacks or a can of soda can be placed on its back to be carted to someone across the house.
The $1,000 robot, which will be sent out to customers later this year, was one of a slew of gadgets Amazon unveiled Tuesday as part of its annual event ahead of the holidays.
Astro, however, stole the show. Amazon executive David Limp asked the 17-inch (43-centimeter) tall robot to come on stage during the virtual event, then asked it to beatbox. Its round digital eyes close or widen as it does tasks, giving it a human-like touch.
Amazon said a limited number of the Astro will be sold, but didn't provide a number.
Besides the robot, Amazon also unveiled a picture frame-like screen that can be hung to a wall and has Amazon's Alexa voice assistant built in. The company foresees it going in the kitchen, where users can see recipes, check their schedule or watch a show as they cook.
Also Tuesday, the Seattle-based company said its Echo listening devices will be put in Disney hotel rooms next year so that guests can order towels from room service or ask it the fastest way to get to a theme park.
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Tags: #New_Innovations, #Robots, #Amazon, #Astro, #Science, #Technology, #The_Brighter_Side_of_News
Joseph Shavit
Science News Writer, Editor-At-Large and Publisher
Joseph Shavit, based in Los Angeles, is a seasoned science journalist, editor and co-founder of The Brighter Side of News, where he transforms complex discoveries into clear, engaging stories for general readers. With experience at major media groups like Times Mirror and Tribune, he writes with both authority and curiosity. His work spans astronomy, physics, quantum mechanics, climate change, artificial intelligence, health, and medicine. Known for linking breakthroughs to real-world markets, he highlights how research transitions into products and industries that shape daily life.