Realbotix develops talking companion robots without limbs
Las Vegas-based robotics company Realbotix is developing “Echo” companion robots made of just a head and torso and powered by AI software. The base version costs $11,950, with a subscription and a vision module adding to the price.
Realbotix, a robotics company based in Las Vegas, is developing humanoid companion robots called “Echo”. The devices run on artificial intelligence (AI) software designed to hold conversations and ease loneliness. The company is already taking pre-orders and plans to begin deliveries next year.
Design and models
To cut production costs, the robots have no limbs or joints: they consist only of a head and a torso. Four models are currently in development – Aria, Mila, Dave and Amar. They are covered in realistic silicone skin, and the company promises a natural-sounding voice.
Pricing
The base head-and-torso version costs $11,950. A full-body variant is priced at $59,950, though it is still unclear what functions it can perform beyond simple arm movements.
In the base configuration, the robot cannot see the user or maintain eye contact. That requires an additional camera and vision module, which costs another $24,950.
Subscriptions
Using the robots also involves a monthly subscription fee:
- Base plan – $20 per month, 10 hours of conversation;
- “Plus” plan – $40 per month, 40 hours of conversation, more expressive voices, more than 100 languages and the option to customize the robot's personality;
- “Enterprise” plan – $200 per month, 100 hours of conversation with the most advanced AI model and the option to add custom models.
A pre-order requires an initial payment of $199.
