Amazon's Astro is a unique addition to the world of home automation, combining the functionality of the voice assistant Alexa with a cute and competent robot companion.
With its advanced features and adorable personality, Astro aims to enhance your smart home experience. It might look like Disney's Wall-E at first glance, but are they also the same when it comes to functions?
Is Astro Robot Affordable?
Amazon Astro could be one of the most expensive Alexa-enabled smart home devices, but what it can really do?
According to CNET, Astro is currently available exclusively by invitation. Interested customers can sign up for an invite to purchase Astro. However, it's worth noting that Astro comes with a starting price of $1,599.99, which makes it more expensive than any other smart home device with Alexa.
Is Astro the Next Wall-E?
Although both Astro and Disney's Wall-E share adorable appearances and communicate through robotic sounds, they have distinct differences.
While Wall-E's purpose was to clean up Earth's garbage, Astro offers the functionality of Alexa, including answering questions, responding to commands, and telling jokes. Astro's personality stands out from Alexa's, providing a unique and endearing experience.
How Mobile is Astro?
Astro, at present, is not equipped with legs, making it unable to climb stairs. It operates on a single level of your home. While there have been reports of Astro having difficulty with stairs, Amazon is continuously improving its navigation system to minimize such issues.
Speaking of issues, a past report claimed that the machine was rushed, that's why it breaks easily. However, the e-commerce giant denied the allegations about its build.
Astro Can Function Like a Robot Vacuum
Despite not being a vacuum cleaner itself, Amazon's Astro robot shares similarities with robot vacuums. It incorporates sensors, cameras, and mapping technology to navigate your home and understand its surroundings.
Additionally, Astro is battery-powered and can return to its charging station when its power is running low. While it won't vacuum your floors, it offers convenience and smart navigation capabilities.
Related Article: Amazon's Astro Can Now Look After Your Pets at Home
Astro's Interaction with Kids
Astro's playful personality and pet-like persona make it enjoyable for the whole family. Kids especially find Astro engaging, as it can mimic a dog, burp, and even perform a cleaner version of Ludacris's Get Back. However, it's important to note that interest in Astro's features may wane once the initial novelty wears off.
Safety and Tripping Hazards
While Astro does not pose a significant tripping hazard, it's always wise to be mindful of its presence. Astro emits a humming sound while moving, providing an audible cue to its whereabouts. Additionally, Astro includes safety features such as the ability to call 911, ensuring peace of mind for emergencies.
Astro as a Beverage Assistant
Astro offers a unique perk by featuring built-in cup holders on its back. It can fetch your preferred beverage from around the house, making it a handy companion. However, as Astro lacks arms, someone else would need to load the drinks onto it for delivery.
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