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Amazon wants to sell small robot "Astro" to companies

Amazon wants to sell small robot "Astro" to companies

Amazon wants to sell small robot "Astro" to companies
Amazon wants to sell small robot "Astro" to companies

Amazon's Little Buddy Astro Finds a Job in Corporate World

Amazon's rollerbot Astro, introduced two years ago, is now looking for work outside of domestic settings. The tiny rolling surveillance device, equipped with a camera and display, is aimed at patrolling small and medium-sized businesses like retail shops in the United States.

The high-tech security system doesn't come cheap. The initial investment for this nifty little gadget will set you back around $2,169 (€2,000) under the "Astro for Business" program, as revealed by Amazon on a recent Wednesday. Additionally, businesses will pay $80 a month for premium features, such as saving recordings for six months, or programming the bot to follow specific routes.

For those seeking an extra layer of protection, paying an extra $99 per month unlocks a security service in response to fire alarms or broken glass sounds. The camera even boasts an impressive height, extending more than a meter above furniture to provide a comprehensive view of the surroundings. Astro has the capability to cover large areas, up to 460 square meters, with a well-designed room layout.

Originally marketed for private households, Astro has only found a limited market among American consumers, selling for around $1,600. The device was primarily advertised as a home companion for elderly relatives or general household assistance.

Incorporating this handy little helper into a corporate setting may require additional financial considerations beyond the initial cost.

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Now, let's delve into the pricing details:

  1. Initial Purchase Price: The initial purchase price of Astro is $1,600, according to available market data in the United States.
  2. Optional Monthly Subscriptions: Though the exact details of optional subscriptions are not available, businesses may opt for features like activity alerts and integration with Ring Alarm for an additional cost. These prices are estimated to be in the range of $10 to $20 a month, resulting in a higher overall cost.

The total cost, including the initial purchase and six months of subscription, is estimated to be around $1,780, considering the mid-range of $15 per month for each additional feature.

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