Home robotics has seen significant advancements lately with several companies introducing robots designed to be integrated seamlessly into our daily lives. These robots go a step further from machines when it comes to being equipped with cutting-edge technology. 

Going beyond just being vacuum cleaners, robots are attempting to do tasks that humans need not do anymore, like folding clothes, opening a door etc. 

Here is a list of 7 home robots you could own this year.

Ballie

Samsung has once again announced Ballie, an AI robot that will follow you around, acting as a home assistant. It can connect to all the IoT devices at home and even guard and feed your pets. The robot can answer questions, text you, and do everything that Alexa can. 

The cute round robot was introduced in 2020 at CES and this year they’ve relaunched Ballie to mixed reviews. “There have been many robots in the past, but generative AI has raised the endless potential of the robot market, and it will be a chance for all devices to become smarter and more developed,” said Han Jong-hee, vice chairman, Samsung Electronics. 

A new feature of the robot is the two-in-one switchable projector, which can display anything you want – a video call, a workout video, or even the insides of your fridge. The robot can detect the person’s posture and facial angle to project the video accordingly. 

Astro

Amazon Astro, a small moving robot with a screen, is designed to assist with home monitoring and staying connected with the family. It can autonomously move around the home, navigate to specific areas, provide live views through the Astro app, send alerts for unrecognised persons, and assist with elderly care. 

It can also work with Alexa Together for remote caregiving, set reminders, and offer 24/7 hands-free access to Urgent Response, an emergency helpline.

Astro is known for its facial recognition and navigation skills and serves as a versatile home security device. It doesn’t have arms but features a cargo bin for carrying items and can distinguish between different family members. 

Its “face” is a screen that can stream video calls, play videos, and follow users around the home for centred interactions. It employs SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) technology for navigation.

Despite being available, it’s important to note that the absence of Astro from prominent Amazon events and the departure of key personnel involved in its development might indicate a shift in focus or strategy regarding Amazon’s home robotics projects​.

Matic 

Matic by Matic Robotics is designed to clean your home and comes equipped with WiFi, Bluetooth, a 1080p camera, and facial recognition. It can navigate your home and avoid obstacles and pets, capable of both vacuuming and mopping. 

It uses 3D mapping to navigate homes and adapts to its environment to prevent getting lost. Controlled via voice and gestures, Matic operates quietly and prioritises user privacy by processing data on the device itself. The company stated that these robots will be available to buy from March 2024. 

LG AI Agent

LG’s new Smart Home AI Agent, unveiled as part of their “Zero Labor Home” vision, is an advanced robotic device equipped with AI and multi-modal technologies. 

Powered by the Qualcomm Robotics RB5 Platform, it features a camera, speaker, and environmental sensors for temperature, humidity, and air quality. The robot’s unique two-legged wheel design enables independent navigation around the home.

This AI agent can engage in complex conversations, understand context and intentions through voice and image recognition, and natural language processing. It can control smart home appliances, act as a pet monitor and security guard, and even save energy by turning off unused devices. 

It also recognizes and responds to users’ emotions, provides personalised content like music, and offers updates on transportation, weather, and personal schedules.

ORo Dog Companion

The ORo Dog Companion robot is designed by Oro.Inc for dogs whose owners are away. It’s an autonomous robot providing physical and mental stimulation for dogs. ORo adapts and learns from a dog’s behaviour for personalised care. It employs algorithms for dog tracking and detection, ensuring accurate monitoring and real-time updates on your pet’s activities.

ORo features audio and image analysis for monitoring a dog’s behaviour, health, and emotions, offering insights into their well-being. It updates continuously over-the-air, enhancing its capabilities. The robot includes an automatic pet feeder that dispenses food and medication, and monitors the dog’s food intake. It’s designed with safety and privacy, featuring gentle interactions, privacy controls, encryption, and out-of-bounds zones within your home. 

Loona Smart Robot

Loona, the smart pet robot made by KEYI Tech is designed to interact with users and provide both companionship and entertainment. It’s equipped with various sensors, a 3D camera, and microphones, enabling it to respond to voice commands, recognize faces and objects, and navigate around the home. 

Loona can perform playful activities like fetching a ball, engaging in bullfighting games, and responding to hand gestures. It can also express emotions through its digital eyes and articulated ears. The robot’s design combines a retro-futuristic aesthetic with efficient mechanical engineering, allowing for a wide range of emotions and communicative abilities.

For connectivity and programming, Loona integrates ChatGPT, allowing for engaging conversations and text-based games. It can also be used as a home security assistant, enabling remote monitoring through its camera. Loona is capable of self-charging and can return to its dock when low on power. It is available for the public on their website. 

Moxie

Moxie, created by Embodied Inc., is a companion robot that serves as a tutor and mentor for children.

It uses play-based learning to develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Moxie AI, the updated version, offers personalised academic learning in various subjects and allows for remote interaction and learning through the Moxie AI Digital app. Parents can use the companion app to monitor and guide their child’s development.

Moxie features advanced conversational AI for natural interactions and supports multiple child profiles with face recognition technology to understand their emotional state. Being COPPA Safe Harbor certified, it is designed with children’s privacy and security in mind. Priced at $799, Moxie AI will be available for purchase in 2024 on MoxieRobot.com and Amazon.