double robotics | GIZMODO.cz

Double Robotics' telepresence bot showed up on our radar a few weeks back, and today we got to chat with its creators and see the thing in person. As a quick refresher, Double is a two-wheeled self balancing bot that turns your iPad into a telepresence screen. Company co-founder Marc DeVidts shared a few more details about his bot, letting us know that it's powered by a 28.8V, 2.9Ah lithium ion cell. And, it turns out the Double's controls aren't app-dependant -- it can be operated by either an iPad running the company's app or by web browser. For now, it's iPad-only, but because Double communicates with Apple slates via Bluetooth, the possibility for Android compatibility does exist, even though the company currently has no plans to make it happen. While you iPad owners wait for the one you undoubtedly just ordered to arrive, check out our video of Double's deliberate moves after the break.

Gallery: Double Robotics' telepresence robot eyes-on

Continue reading Double telepresence bot spotted in the wild, we go eyes-on (video)

Filed under: Robots

Double telepresence bot spotted in the wild, we go eyes-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 06:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Walking iPads aside, usable telepresence remains one of geekdom's purest goals. Being able to attend meetings, without the minor irritation of actually being there, has been a motivator for professionals and hobbyists alike. Double Robotics, on the other hand, feel that they've spotted an opportunity. By leveraging the computing power of the iPad, coupled with some smart design, it has created the "Double," a self-balancing motorized iPad stand. You'll need a pair of Apple slates to get going, one to peer into and use as a controller (via an app), another to project your face, and act as the seeing eye (via the front-facing camera). Best of all, this is much more affordable than many existing options, rolling in at $1,999 if you pre-order ($2,499 otherwise), shipping in December -- iPads not included. Facetime on wheels? Why didn't we think of that? Roll past the break for the video.

Continue reading Double Robotics gives your iPad wheels, brings telepresence to the masses (video)

Filed under: Robots, Science

Double Robotics gives your iPad wheels, brings telepresence to the masses (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 15:42:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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