Get the World’s Smallest Humanoid Robot for $300
In the market for a geeky Christmas present? Or perhaps the world’s smallest humanoid robot? Well, here’s the answer to both. ThinkGeek is selling Tomy’s iSobot for $299.99 — the smallest humanoid in production. (And don’t think smallest equals junk).
This blatant promotional video totally sold me on the retro introduction (and they show off iSobot’s abilities nicely):
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The i-SOBOT can be directly controlled via the included remote to walk and perform dozens of complex motions. He can balance on one leg, do a handstand and get up from almost any position. String commands together to record more complex performances, or you can use the “Special Action Mode” to be wowed by one of i-SOBOTS intricate built in motion routines. i-SOBOT can also understand 10 different voice commands and speaks using over 200 words and phrases. [product page]
Technically I think GeStream’s humanoid is the smallest (he’s 15cm tall versus iSobot who’s 16cm), but he’s not in production yet. Thus, by being officially recognized by the Guiness Book of Records, iSobot swoops the title.
Tim Hornyak discusses iSobot with some more details, mentioning Tomy’s history in robotics. They’ve been building robots for quite some time, iSobot being the latest in their Omnibot line (official name being Omnibot 17μ: i-SOBOT). Frankly, while I’m geeked out by iSobot, I wish they would’ve kept the awesome design of their Omnibot 2000!
Links and References
- Omnibots on Wikipedia
4 Comments, Comment or Ping
John Pozadzides
That is totally awesome!
In a few years I would think we’ll be able to have semi-autonomous larger versions of these things cleaning our houses.
Then in only a few more years we can have them killing us all and running the world!
John
Nov 23rd, 2007
jay
Major price drop on I-SOBOT..only $99.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer..
Nov 4th, 2008
Hrafn Thorisson
Nice price! Thanks for the tip Jay.
Nov 4th, 2008
Ludwiig
At even $100 the i-SOBOT is a waste of money. If you buy one don’t spend more than $40 – $60 on e-bay. Why? …when you get your i-SOBOT you have to rip out the speaker because the sound fx and the voice are so STUPID and ANNOYING. Also, the remote looks like it belongs in the 80’s, square and ugly with tacky white buttons ROFL…. its so ugly!
The isobot is a good paperweight for your computer desk that does tricks. Don’t waste good money on this cheap toy.
Ludwiig
Feb 8th, 2009
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