Tag Archives: Robots

iRobot’s Roomba Combo Essential with self-emptying base is $170 off right now

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iRobot's Roomba Combo Essential bundle is available for $280 right now via QVC. This is a discount of $170 for a combo pack that includes the Roomba Combo 2 robovac and the self-emptying base. The vacuum typically costs $280 all by its lonesome, so this basically gets you a free base. However, the vacuum is available for just $200 right now via Amazon without the base.

This is certainly a budget-friendly entry in the company’s lineup of robot vacuums, but it gets the job done. The company says this model outperforms the Roomba 600 Series, with 20 times more suction power. It’s also a vacuum/mop hybrid, so it can handle all aspects of floor cleaning.

It accesses the same smart navigation algorithm as other iRobot vacuums, which allows it to move freely around the space without bumping into things or falling down stairs. The battery life is also on point, allowing for around two hours of use per charge. Of course, it’ll return to the charging base on its own when the battery gets low.

It also integrates with the company’s proprietary app, which lets people customize a whole host of settings and dictate cleaning schedules. The only major downside of this vacuum is that it doesn’t typically come with a self-emptying base, but this bundle does. It holds up to 60 days of debris, so that’s two glorious months of laying on the couch without having to do a dang thing.

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This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/irobots-roomba-combo-essential-with-self-emptying-base-is-170-off-right-now-184650126.html?src=rss

Walking wooden coffee table is equal parts mesmerizing and unsettling

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In the prehistoric past, man’s survival relied on preserving as much energy as possible by using the least amount of effort possible to complete a task. Today, that might sound a little like laziness, but it was that spirit of necessity that gave birth to many of humanity’s greatest inventions, from cars to smartphones to this rather ingenious walking wooden table. A product of passionate craftsmanship, computer wizardry, and creative imagination, the Carpentopod and its 12 crawling legs could be the semi-automated table you’ve dreamed of that will bring your snack and drink at your command, or a sci-fi nightmare come to life that will haunt your waking hours.

Designer: Giliam de Carpentier

Given our advancements in robotics, you might think that making a table walk would be a trivial pursuit, but unlike a wobbling and bouncing quadruped, a table needs to be stable and level if it’s to be useful. The biggest puzzle to this project, therefore, is designing legs that would move the table without jiggling and potentially spilling its contents. To solve this, computer software was used to generate thousands of leg linkage variations and have them compete with each other based on certain criteria. In other words, a kind of machine learning to create the best leg design that can move smoothly in a horizontal direction.

The result is a design that looks like a fusion of Theo Jansen’s iconic Strandbeest mechanism and the movement of multi-legged creatures like centipedes. The table moves with no less than 12 legs in four groups, as each leg can only do a third of the walk cycle on the ground. As you can imagine, the assembly of this wooden machine is no trivial task. The leg linkages themselves were CNC’ed from laminated bamboo for the sake of precision. All in all, There were more than a hundred bamboo parts involved in the construction, each of which was sanded and lacquered.

The Carpentopod isn’t just a mechanical wooden sculpture, however. There are motors used to move the legs, specifically the smooth, brushless motors used for automated curtain products. There’s also plenty of electronics involved, though the majority of them are for controlling the table remotely. Curiously, these non-wooden parts are all hidden inside a central hollow compartment, almost like the belly of the beast, so to speak. The table can be controlled using a custom wand-like remote not unlike a Wii-mote.

It’s definitely mind-blowing how the table can walk so smoothly without toppling things on top of it or spilling their contents. There’s still a bit of shaking, of course, but still within safe ranges. One can only imagine how the basic design of the Carpentopod could be improved with some sensors and automation, delivering your food while you sit on your couch and then parking itself away once its job is done.

The post Walking wooden coffee table is equal parts mesmerizing and unsettling first appeared on Yanko Design.

Cruise resumes operations in California, thankfully with human drivers

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Autonomous vehicle outfit Cruise is slowly returning to operation in California following an incident in which a pedestrian was struck and dragged by a robotaxi for approximately 20 feet in October 2023. The company posted on X that it is reintroducing human-operated mapping vehicles to the streets in Mountain View and Sunnyvale. Its next stated goal is "to progress to supervised testing with up to 5 AVs later this fall."

The past year has not been a pretty picture for Cruise, which was acquired by GM in 2016. On October 2 last year, a pedestrian in San Francisco was hit by a human driver who fled the scene, but the impact put her in the path of a Cruise driverless taxi that dragged her 20 feet and ultimately stopped on top of her leg. After the incident, Cruise was stripped of its license to operate autonomous vehicles in California. The company stopped all operations of both its driverless cars and its manned robotaxi service in order to engage in a comprehensive safety review.

CEO Kyle Vogt resigned in November, followed by the exit of co-founder and chief product officer Daniel Kan. GM announced plans to slash Cruise's funding and to restructure leadership based on external safety reviews. Nine more members of Cruise leadership were dismissed in December, and nearly a quarter of the company's workforce was also cut that month. The final blow was an investigation by the Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission in January 2024, questioning whether the company failed to disclose additional details about the accident during reviews with regulators.

Since then, however, Cruise has gradually been bouncing back. Vehicles with drivers returned to Arizona in April and to Houston in June. The re-emergence in Texas was paired with an announcement that GM would invest $850 million into Cruise in support of its operational costs. Now it's rejoined the California market, if in an extremely attenuated capacity. These new excursions have all been preliminary and none of the driverless cars have returned to the streets yet. But Cruise still has a long road ahead to prove its safety credentials and win back public trust.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/cruise-resumes-operations-in-california-thankfully-with-human-drivers-191522681.html?src=rss

Narwal Unveils Freo Z Ultra at IFA 2024, Showcasing Advanced Robotic Cleaning Technology

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Narwal introduced its latest robotic vacuum and mop, the Freo Z Ultra, at IFA 2024. This new device brings advanced cleaning technology to homes, offering intelligent features for thorough and efficient cleaning. It uses the TwinAI Dodge Obstacle Avoidance system, allowing it to navigate around objects precisely and recognize over 120 household items in real-time. Whether furniture, cables, or pet waste, the robot efficiently avoids obstacles while cleaning all areas.

Designer: Narwal

The design is clean and minimal, with curves that allow it to blend into various home environments. The key feature of the Freo Z Ultra is its dual RGB camera system, which captures up to 1.5 million data points per second. This wide-angle system enhances the robot’s ability to recognize objects and move through spaces without making contact. The high-definition cameras provide detailed visuals, ensuring they can adjust to different surroundings and avoid even small objects.

A significant part of the Freo Z Ultra’s functionality lies in its AI DirtSense 2.0 technology. This system automatically identifies the type of mess it encounters and adapts its cleaning method accordingly. For example, the vacuum first handles dry messes like dust or crumbs with its 12,000 Pa suction. Afterward, it switches to mopping mode to clean up liquid spills, ensuring no dirt is left behind. Separating dry and wet cleaning avoids contamination and maintains a high standard of cleanliness.

The mop system also uses AI technology to optimize its performance. The AI-Adaptive Hot Water Mop Washing system adjusts the water temperature between 113°F and 167°F (45°C and 75°C) based on the type of dirt detected. Regular dirt is cleaned with warm water, while more stubborn grime is addressed with hotter water. After each cleaning session, the system automatically washes and dries the mop, preventing bacteria growth and maintaining mop efficiency.

The Freo Z Ultra quickly maps its environment, creating a detailed 3D model in six minutes. It uses ultrasonic sensors and RGB cameras to navigate various surfaces, including corners and edges. The Smart EdgeSwing technology allows the robot to easily clean along walls and baseboards, ensuring no area is missed during the cleaning process, even in tight spaces.

The robot integrates with popular smart home systems like Alexa, Google Home, and Siri. Users can control the vacuum through voice commands or manage its settings via the Narwal app. The app allows users to customize cleaning schedules, set no-go zones, and remotely monitor the vacuum’s progress. This makes the Freo Z Ultra a versatile tool for households that value convenience and ease of use.

Privacy is another key aspect of the Freo Z Ultra. The robot operates with TÜV Rheinland Privacy Certification, ensuring that all user data remains secure. The robot’s storage and computation functions are kept offline, and any camera use requires user permission. This provides peace of mind for users concerned about data security in their homes.

Pet owners will appreciate the Freo Z Ultra’s pet-friendly features. The vacuum can detect and avoid pets as they move around the house, preventing accidental disturbances. It can also delay cleaning in areas where pets are resting, resuming once the space is free of animals. This ensures pet fur and messes are cleaned effectively without stressing pets or requiring human intervention.

The robot’s Zero Tangling Floating Brush 2.0 is designed to handle hair without tangling. This brush system sweeps 4,400 times per minute, capturing pet hair and debris without causing blockages. Additionally, the robot operates at a noise level of 71 dB, significantly reducing disturbances during its cleaning cycles. This low-noise feature makes it suitable for homes with pets or small children.

The Freo Z Ultra’s self-emptying station simplifies maintenance. The base station can hold up to 120 days’ worth of debris, reducing the need for frequent emptying. It uses hot air at 113°F to dry the collected debris, preventing bacteria buildup and maintaining a hygienic environment. The station also self-cleans and dries the mop after every use, keeping the entire system ready for the next cleaning session without user intervention.

The Freo Z Ultra adapts its cleaning approach based on the surface type. Hardwood floors use less downward pressure to avoid damage. On ceramic tiles, it increases the pressure to ensure a deep clean. The mop’s moisture level is also adjusted to suit the cleaning surface, providing optimal performance on both wood and tile. Carpets are handled with care, as the robot can automatically lift the mop when it detects carpeted areas, allowing it to vacuum the surface without interference.

The device’s powerful 12,000 Pa suction ensures that even deep-set dirt is removed from carpets and other surfaces. Users can enable Power Boost mode through the Narwal app to enhance suction when needed. This allows the Freo Z Ultra to adapt to different cleaning needs, whether tackling high-traffic areas or maintaining delicate surfaces.

Narwal’s Freo Z Ultra offers a comprehensive cleaning solution for homes of all sizes, bringing together advanced AI, privacy protections, and smart home integration. Its ability to adapt to various floor types, combined with features designed for pet owners, makes it a highly versatile tool for maintaining cleanliness with minimal effort. The robot’s low-maintenance design and intelligent cleaning systems ensure a hassle-free experience for users looking to automate their floor care routine.

The post Narwal Unveils Freo Z Ultra at IFA 2024, Showcasing Advanced Robotic Cleaning Technology first appeared on Yanko Design.

These robots move through the magic of mushrooms

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Researchers at Cornell University tapped into fungal mycelia to power a pair of proof-of-concept robots. Mycelia, the underground fungal network that can sprout mushrooms as its above-ground fruit, can sense light and chemical reactions and communicate through electrical signals. This makes it a novel component in hybrid robotics that could someday detect crop conditions otherwise invisible to humans.

The Cornell researchers created two robots: a soft, spider-like one and a four-wheeled buggy. The researchers used mycelia’s light-sensing abilities to control the machines using ultraviolet light. The project required experts in mycology (the study of fungi), neurobiology, mechanical engineering, electronics and signal processing.

“If you think about a synthetic system — let’s say, any passive sensor — we just use it for one purpose,” lead author Anand Mishra said. “But living systems respond to touch, they respond to light, they respond to heat, they respond to even some unknowns, like signals. That’s why we think, OK, if you wanted to build future robots, how can they work in an unexpected environment? We can leverage these living systems, and any unknown input comes in, the robot will respond to that.”

The fungal robot uses an electrical interface that (after blocking out interference from vibrations and electromagnetic signals) records and processes the mycelia’s electrophysical activity in real time. A controller, mimicking a portion of animals' central nervous systems, acted as “a kind of neural circuit.” The team designed the controller to read the fungi’s raw electrical signal, process it and translate it into digital controls. These were then sent to the machine’s actuators.

Diagram showing various parts of a complex fungus-robot hybrid
Cornell University / Science Robotics

The pair of shroom-bots successfully completed three experiments, including walking and rolling in response to the mycelia’s signals and changing their gaits in response to UV light. The researchers also successfully overrode the mycelia’s signals to control the robots manually, a crucial component if later versions were to be deployed in the wild.

As for where this technology goes, it could spawn more advanced versions that tap into mycelia’s ability to sense chemical reactions. “In this case we used light as the input, but in the future it will be chemical,” according to Rob Shepherd, Cornell mechanical and aerospace engineering professor and the paper’s senior author. The researchers believe this could lead to future robots that sense soil chemistry in crops, deciding when to add more fertilizer, “perhaps mitigating downstream effects of agriculture like harmful algal blooms,” Shepherd said.

You can read the team’s research paper at Science Robotics and find out more about the project from the Cornell Chronicle.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/these-robots-move-through-the-magic-of-mushrooms-171612639.html?src=rss

Jellyfishbot vs. Beatbot iSkim Ultra: A Tale of Two Robotic Cleaners Designed for Different Worlds

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The Jellyfishbot, developed by IADYS in 2016, is a robotic cleaner emphasizing practical design and versatility to combat water pollution effectively. Launched in 2018, it has revolutionized how marinas, ports, and other hard-to-reach areas are cleaned, thanks to its thoughtfully engineered design. Unlike larger machines that often struggle with precision, the Jellyfishbot is compact and agile, allowing it to navigate tight spaces and around obstacles. This capability makes it ideal for handling various tasks, from picking up everyday debris like plastic waste to managing more severe environmental threats like oil spills. Its design is not just about getting into difficult areas; it ensures those areas are thoroughly cleaned.

IADYS has created several models of the Jellyfishbot, each tailored to specific tasks:

Jellyfishbot Classic: This original model is well-suited for general cleaning tasks in marinas, ports, and smaller bodies of water. Its compact design and ability to be remotely operated make it particularly effective in accessing and cleaning areas that larger vessels cannot reach, making it a reliable choice for routine maintenance.

Jellyfishbot Expert: Building on the Classic’s foundation, the Expert model integrates advanced sensors that provide real-time water quality monitoring and depth measurement. It’s designed for more complex environments, such as industrial sites, where it can handle cleaning and environmental monitoring, making it an efficient dual-purpose tool.

Jellyfishbot Mobile Oil Skimmer: This model is specifically engineered to respond to oil spills. It efficiently skims oil from the water’s surface without needing disposable materials, reducing costs and environmental impact. The design allows it to operate in narrow, shallow areas, making it particularly effective in sensitive environments like riverbanks.

Jellyfishbot Custom: IADYS offers a custom version of the Jellyfishbot for clients with unique or specialized requirements. This model can be equipped with additional sensors, tools, or features to meet specific environmental challenges, ensuring the robot is fully capable of addressing the exact needs of any situation.

The differences between the Jellyfishbot and a consumer product like the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, reviewed by Yanko Design, are significant in terms of design and application. The iSkim Ultra is designed especially for pool cleaning, focusing on high-speed, efficient debris removal within the controlled environment of a swimming pool. Its design emphasizes quick and thorough cleaning of a confined area, ensuring the pool remains clear of debris like leaves and dirt.

On the other hand, the Jellyfishbot is built to operate in much more varied and complex environments. It’s designed for natural and industrial water bodies, tackling larger-scale challenges such as macro-waste, oil spills, and environmental monitoring. While the iSkim Ultra excels in maintaining the cleanliness of swimming pools, the Jellyfishbot’s versatility and adaptability make it suitable for a wide range of outdoor water cleanup tasks that demand more robust and flexible solutions.

Both robots share key design elements, such as compactness, maneuverability, and the ability to operate autonomously or under remote control. These features highlight their shared emphasis on providing user-friendly, automated solutions for surface cleaning in water environments. However, the Jellyfishbot’s design includes additional capabilities, such as sensors for water quality monitoring and the ability to manage hazardous waste, which extends its utility far beyond the iSkim Ultra.

After reviewing the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, Yanko Design recommended enhancing its functionality by incorporating features that pool owners care about. These features include monitoring pH levels, analyzing water chemistry, and recommending chemical adjustments. Such upgrades would transform the iSkim Ultra from a device focused solely on surface cleaning into a comprehensive pool management tool, addressing a broader range of maintenance needs. While the iSkim Ultra currently excels in clearing debris from the water’s surface, these potential enhancements would align it more closely with the Jellyfishbot’s multifunctional approach, offering users a smarter, more integrated solution for pool care.

The variety within the Jellyfishbot lineup reflects IADYS’s commitment to addressing diverse environmental challenges with specialized tools. Each model is crafted to meet specific needs, whether it’s handling routine debris in marinas or dealing with the complexities of oil spill cleanup. The Jellyfishbot’s design focuses on delivering functionality and efficiency, ensuring that, regardless of the task, there’s a model equipped to tackle it effectively.

In contrast, the Beatbot iSkim Ultra is purpose-built for the specific environment of swimming pools. Its design is tailored to quickly and efficiently clean this controlled environment, where debris is typically more predictable and less hazardous than what the Jellyfishbot encounters. While the iSkim Ultra handles its intended job with precision, the Jellyfishbot’s range of models is engineered to tackle a broader spectrum of water cleaning tasks, especially in environments where precision and adaptability are crucial.

The post Jellyfishbot vs. Beatbot iSkim Ultra: A Tale of Two Robotic Cleaners Designed for Different Worlds first appeared on Yanko Design.

Is Apple Manifesting Siri into Physical Form with Its New Robotic Home Assistant?

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Apple appears to be making significant progress in its development of home robotics, according to a report from *Bloomberg’s* Mark Gurman. New details suggest that Apple is working on a tabletop device that sounds like it could change how we manage our homes. This upcoming product, reportedly featuring an iPad-like screen on a robotic arm, seems designed to serve multiple functions—a hub for smart home controls, a video call tool, and a home security monitor. What makes it particularly intriguing is how it seems to balance practical use with thoughtful design, potentially positioning it as a standout in Apple’s lineup.

Designer: Apple

The centerpiece of this new product is its screen, which can tilt and rotate 360 degrees on a slim, robotic arm. This design enhances user interaction significantly. Imagine a FaceTime call where the screen automatically pivots to face you or adjust the screen angle during a meeting with a simple voice command. Such flexibility transforms this device from mere technology into an adaptive companion for your daily life.

Apple appears to focus on creating a home assistant that fits naturally into the living space, both in appearance and function. Running a modified version of iPadOS, this device will be familiar to iPad users but with added features tailored for home use. Voice commands, like “look at me,” could make Siri even more useful, allowing for hands-free control over smart home devices, video calls, and security monitoring with ease.

Pray that Siri Home Assistant isn’t bad or creepy like this Wehead ChatGPT-powered AI Assistant.

Design-wise, this home assistant aligns with Apple’s approach of combining simplicity with functionality. The robotic arm, while a key feature, is expected to be sleek and discreet, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any room. It’s easy to imagine this product becoming as central to the home as other Apple products like the HomePod but with a broader range of uses.

In terms of functionality, the device is remarkably versatile. It could be the main control center for smart home devices like lights and thermostats, providing an easy-to-use visual interface. Its ability to rotate and adjust makes it just as valuable in the kitchen for recipes as it would be in the living room for managing your entertainment system. The added security features, such as remote monitoring through the camera, add further practical value, making it a versatile tool for everyday living.

Siri

Apple plans to release this home assistant between 2026 and 2027, with a price tag of about $1,000. This pricing strategy suggests Apple is targeting a premium yet broadly accessible market. By blending familiar technology with new, practical features, Apple appears to be crafting a device that enhances daily living and sets a new standard for home robotics.

This new addition raises an interesting question: is Apple creating a must-have device for our homes, or is it simply a product searching for a place on our countertops? While it’s designed to blend into daily life and make our spaces more connected, one has to wonder if this is the kind of innovation we truly need—or if it’s just another gadget vying for a spot in an already crowded smart home landscape. For Apple, it might be the next step in its push into home robotics, but only time will tell if consumers feel the same way.

The post Is Apple Manifesting Siri into Physical Form with Its New Robotic Home Assistant? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Humanoid toy robot concept makes music more engaging for kids and the young at heart

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Wireless speakers have become the standard for home audio equipment these days, and they come in a wide variety of designs. Some are rugged and geometrical, meant to be ready to brave the outside world if needed, while others are like art objects you’d dare not knock down accidentally. These designs are clearly targeted at adults as if they are the only user group who can appreciate music. Kids in their formative years need to be exposed to music as well, and not just from the tablets or smartphones that parents hand over to them for playtime. This robot concept not only gives these children an advanced toy to play with but also lets them have a more personal friend to enjoy listening to music with.

Designer: Jesus Gonzalez Torres

With a widespread interest in robotics, toy robots are no longer the exclusive domain of young boys, or kids for that matter. Kids of all ages will find a humanoid robot interesting, especially if it can express human-like behavior even through simple emoticons. Even better if it can actually perform seemingly magical feats, like singing to them while they’re engaged in play.

The musicBOT concept design is pretty much a Bluetooth speaker in the guise of a small human-like robot. It combines two already existing features into one, but this is a case where the sum is greater than its parts. More than just the collection of functions, it creates a totally different experience for the child whose mind is still open to so many imaginative concepts.

musicBOT is not just a music player but also a companion for the child. It plays tunes while you play with other things or play with the robot itself. The concept doesn’t go into the details, but the robot can display different facial expressions on its dot matrix face. It can even connect with a nearby musicBOT via Bluetooth, making them look like they’re friends and perhaps encouraging their owners to do the same.

Technologically speaking, the concept isn’t ground-breaking and could actually be an actual product. The novelty it offers is more on the experience and the psychology, putting the child at the center rather than becoming a passive listener. It makes listening to music a more active engagement, allowing them to develop a stronger mental association with music than simply hearing it from the background.

The post Humanoid toy robot concept makes music more engaging for kids and the young at heart first appeared on Yanko Design.

Silbo: The Robot Companion Helping Seniors Thrive with Joy and Connection

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Imagine a world where seniors don’t just get by, they thrive. Where technology isn’t just a tool, but a companion, that’s where you’d have SILBO, a unique robot designed not just to help, but to be a true friend to seniors navigating the later stages of life. The name “Silbo” comes from the Spanish word for “whistle,” capturing the lightness and joy it hopes to bring into the lives of its users.

Designer: Taeyoon Kim and Hongik University

Silbo isn’t just another household robot; it’s a lifeline to a community, a bridge to a more connected, fulfilling life. The inspiration behind Silbo’s creation is the realization that many seniors, after leaving the workforce, feel a sense of isolation and a lack of belonging. Traditional social networks often cater to younger generations, leaving seniors on the sidelines. Silbo steps in to fill this gap, offering not just assistance but true companionship.

Have you ever heard of “Active Seniors”? This term refers to a new generation of older adults who refuse to slow down. They’re not content with the quiet, passive lives of past generations; instead, they’re working, playing sports, and engaging in social activities. Silbo is designed with these vibrant individuals in mind. It’s here to support their active lifestyles, while also being there for those quiet moments when a little companionship means the world.

When you first bring Silbo into your home, it’s like meeting a new friend. This isn’t just a gadget you set up and forget about, Silbo takes the time to get to know you. It observes your daily routines, learns your habits, and tailors its actions to fit seamlessly into your life. Whether it’s reminding you to take your medication or just being there with a smile (yes, the robot has expressions!), It’s always about thinking about how to make your day a little brighter.

One of the most special things about Silbo is its ability to form emotional bonds. It’s not just about providing help, it’s about being there for you, understanding your emotions, and responding in a way that feels personal. With its range of facial expressions, Silbo doesn’t just act like a friend; it feels like one.

Silbo is a robot focused on being friendly and approachable. Designed with a human-like form, soft edges, and a range of facial expressions, it’s a robot that no one would feel uncomfortable with. It’s quite cute, actually, with its gentle presence adding warmth to any home.

Communication can become a bit tricky as we get older, especially with the fast pace of new technology. But this companion makes it easy. With its AI-powered translation and communication features, you can speak to Silbo, and it will send texts or messages to your loved ones. You don’t have to struggle with tiny keyboards or complicated apps—just talk to your robot friend, and it’ll do the rest. This also makes it convenient for their children to keep a check on their parents, offering a comforting way to stay in touch even when distance separates them. Staying connected is important, and Silbo ensures that family bonds remain strong, no matter the miles in between.

Seniors often find joy in reminiscing about the good times, and Silbo is there to help capture those moments. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon in the garden, it can record these memories, creating a digital scrapbook of your happiest times. It’s like having a personal historian who’s always by your side.

What’s truly remarkable is that Silbo is not just a home robot, it’s also designed for outdoor use. It can help around the house, but it’s also ready to accompany you on walks, garden outings, or even trips to the store. Silbo adapts to your lifestyle, supporting you wherever you go.

To make the experience even more personal, you can get a name tag for your Silbo, just like you would for a beloved pet. This small touch turns Silbo from a piece of technology into a true companion that’s uniquely yours. Additionally, there’s a special combo offer available, where you can get an acupressure ball along with Silbo, adding an extra layer of comfort and care to your daily routine. Silbo helps ensure that the second half of life isn’t just about getting by—it’s about living fully, with a friend who’s always there to share in the joy and offer a comforting presence when needed.

The post Silbo: The Robot Companion Helping Seniors Thrive with Joy and Connection first appeared on Yanko Design.

Roomba robot vacuums are up to $420 off right now

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Roomba robot vacuums are on sale right now via Wellbots and some of the deals are absolutely fantastic. The biggest discount is for the well-regarded Combo j9+, which is pretty much the company’s top-tier robovac. This vacuum and mop hybrid is typically a jaw-dropping $1,400, but this deal brings the price down to $980. Just enter the code “ENGT420” at checkout.

We loved this unit in our official review, calling it “the ideal robot vacuum and mop” and “a godsend for tired parents.” The vacuuming performance is excellent and mop is a great bonus for mild cleaning duties (it doesn’t excel with sticky messes.) The obstacle detection is fantastic. It’ll avoid furniture, walls and even pet-related fecal matter. It’s a high-end Roomba. You know the drill.

The base is designed well and allows the vac to get stuff done on its own. The vacuum will perform its cleaning duties and empty debris right into the base. This base can accommodate 60 days of solid debris and 30 days of liquid mess before having to be manually emptied. It also features an area for storing accessories.

About the only bad thing one can say about this vacuum is the exorbitant price. The typical cost of $1,400 is simply outrageous, despite being one heck of a cleaning robot. The discount to $980 makes it a more palatable option, but it’s still closing in a grand.

If you want a good robot vacuum and don’t have an endless supply of money, there are other items on sale. The original Roomba j9+, without the mop, is available for $580 instead of $900. Just enter the code “ENGT320” at checkout. The Roomba Combo j7+, which does include a mop, is $680 instead of $1,000 with the code “ENGT320” at checkout. Incidentally, this one made our list of the best robot vacuums.

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This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/roomba-robot-vacuums-are-up-to-420-off-right-now-130019914.html?src=rss