If you’re looking for a dog but have reservations about all the poop, pee, and chewed-up shoes you have to deal with, how about getting a robot instead?
Unitree has moved one step closer to this idea with the launch of the impressive-looking As2 four-legged friend on Tuesday.
The Chinese robotics giant already has plenty of experience building robot dogs, but the newly unveiled As2 stands out from its other models with a lighter, more agile consumer-grade device with a superior run time of more than 4 hours, a walking range of 8 miles and a top speed of 18 miles per hour. It even supports large AI models for embodied AI interaction and autonomous decision making.
Features include a high-resolution front camera, built-in microphone and speaker, remote control and smart follow modes, and a lighting system that makes nighttime walks easier. It also has an IP54 rating, making it dust and rain resistant.
A video (above) accompanying the launch portrays the As2 as a pet, with clips showing it going for walks and running to its owner. It also shows the strength and balance of the robot, as the 18kg machine is able to stand and remain stable while a 105kg human stands on its back.
The As2 also has a few tricks up its sleeve that take it far beyond what a normal dog can do. Like playing tennis. It’s true – if you attach the optional seven-axis robotic arm, you can stick a tennis racket in its gripper and get started.
It seems like a lot of fun, but if you think you miss all the cuteness, slobber, and quirky behavior of a normal flesh-and-blood mutt, then the As2 probably isn’t for you.
Unitree has not yet publicly announced pricing for its new robot dog and is asking interested parties to contact sales.
