It was during the Consumer Electronics Show 2016 (CES) when the world's first family robot, Alpha 2, made its first appearance. The new innovation is capable of tutoring, performing household chores and other tasks.
According to TechRepublic, the Alpha 2 is derived from the Nao line, which is a leader in humanoid robots. Nao, which focuses on research and education, has come up with some great advances in robots. One of its products played soccer in the RoboCup.
The Alpha 2 is a Wi-Fi-enabled robot that is made by UBTECH, which is currently raising funds through Indiegogo. As of January 7, it has already earned more than $1,300,000. Once the production begins it is expected to cost in the ballpark of $1500.
Inquistr cited some of the capabilities of Alpha 2.
This robot can consolidate calendars, schedule and give reminders for forthcoming events and tasks. It is also capable of taking photographs and posting images to social media accounts.
Teaching yoga or dance lessons to a family member is another ability that Alpha 2 has. It can provide verbal guidelines for tasks such as home repairs and even entertain children or guests at home by providing music or dancing. It can also respond to queries by searching the web and teach foreign languages to users.
Interestingly, the Alpha 2 can also report the weather, set-up medical reminders and work as a home security monitor that can alert homeowners to invaders.
As for the Alpha 2's specifications and hardware features, CNET reported that this robot measures 17 by 9 inches and weighs 5 pounds. The device runs on Android 4.4 and is powered with a 2,150 mAh battery. It is packed with 16 GB of internal storage coupled with 2 GB of RAM. When it comes to connectivity, the Alpha 2 is Wi-Fi capable and it supports USB connector.
In the US, UBTech has plan to stock in Toy R Us and Amazon, after distributing first to original campaign sponsors. The Australian and UK specifics have yet to be announced, but its $1,300 price converts to around AU$1,845 or £890.
Following its appearance at the CES 2016, interested buyers of the Alpha 2 can have the new member on their household two months from now.
