A week or so back, I wrote about my forthcoming trip to Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Mellon University for the unveiling of the Bossa Nova Robotics line. My first piece about the event also happens to be my first contribution as a guest blogger for Wired‘s Geek Dad.
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| Prime-8, further evidence of author Chris Roberson’s insightful axiom that “everything is improved by the judicious application of primates,” hits the market first. Unlike previous toy robots, the 12” tall, yellow ape uses specially-designed robotic arms and legs to “knuckle-run” at high speeds. The gorilla’s personality transforms from serene, friendly, and blue-eyed to a crazy, beating the floor, roaring simian. When he gets really pissed off, the ape rips a loud, obnoxious fart. In “Guard” mode he shoots rubber tipped missiles at intruders (perfect against little sisters). The robot receives commands through a video-game style remote. Two users can even engage their individual ‘bots in combat! Intended for ages 8-12, the Prime-8 retails for $99.99. |
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| On the other end of the gender spectrum, Penbo, a penguin covered with pink fur waddles, flaps its tiny wings, and makes cooing sounds. She lays an egg that hatches into a baby, Bebe. Offspring come in four different colors, each with its own unique personality . When the baby rests within the Penbo’s pouch, they sing to each other while the mother joyfully dances. The mother and child converse in their own Penguish language. Penbo plays six different games with the user including tag, hide-and-seek, and peek-a-boo. Two Penbos or Bebes brought together will talk and sing to each other. The adorable Penbo, suggested for ages 4-6, sells for $69.99. |
Read more about these amazing robots at Geek Dad.