WEILAN has announced the global launch of its upgraded BabyAlpha A2 series. The new version of this smart quadruped robot, designed as a family companion, is set to be introduced through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign on October 10, 2024. In addition to the BabyAlpha A2 series, the company will release a developer-focused version, BabyAlpha DevQ, aimed at engineers and tech enthusiasts.
The BabyAlpha A2 series is focused on companionship and emotional bonding. According to WEILAN founder Liu Weichao, BabyAlpha is meant to be part of the household that fosters emotional connections with its users. The robot integrates over 100 lifelike expressions and 40 biomimetic movements, and it is powered by the GPT-4o engine to enhance voice interaction, providing quick and accurate responses to user commands. This makes the robot a versatile tool for educational and entertainment purposes for children, while also acting as a virtual assistant for adults.
Among the BabyAlpha A2’s features is its ability to offer real-time home security monitoring. The robot includes indoor navigation, motion detection, and obstacle avoidance systems, allowing it to autonomously patrol homes and monitor surroundings. Users can also remotely control the robot via an app for safety checks when they are away. Additionally, the upgraded model includes improved outdoor capabilities, with running speeds 1.5 to 2 times faster than its predecessor.
The BabyAlpha A2 also functions as a smart communication device, supporting video calls and featuring a built-in camera for remote-controlled photo capture. Its multi-modal communication capabilities allow users to send messages and pre-set expressions that the robot can translate into speech, facial expressions, and movements. The robot’s intuitive interface and multiple control options make it accessible to users of all ages, while its autonomous charging system ensures low-maintenance operation.
