## Samsung Launches Enhanced Ballie Home Robot at CES 2024
Ballie Makes a Comeback
Remember Samsung’s spherical home robot, Ballie, introduced at CES 2020? If it slipped your mind, you’re not alone. Samsung has brought Ballie back at CES 2024, this time with significant AI improvements. Presented at Samsung’s press conference in Las Vegas, the updated Ballie is the size of a bowling ball and has a battery life that lasts two to three hours.
Enhanced Navigation and Projection Features
Ballie uses a spatial lidar sensor to navigate through rooms and avoid obstacles. A standout feature is its 1080p projector with dual lenses, enabling it to project movies, video calls, and even act as a secondary PC monitor.
“Use [Ballie] to project images and stream content on walls; it can automatically adjust the picture based on wall distance and lighting conditions,” states Samsung in their press release. Ballie can detect people’s postures and facial angles, optimizing the projection for the best viewing experience.
Control Through Voice and Text Commands
Ballie can be managed by voice commands or text messages. For instance, you can text, “play a movie on the nearest wall,” and Ballie will confirm via a chatbot before executing the command. This feature provides an additional layer of convenience and interactivity.
Integration with Smart Home Devices
Like its counterparts, Ballie can automatically control smart lights and even operate “non-smart” devices like air conditioners and older TVs using its built-in infrared transmitter. It can map your home’s floor plan and recognize the locations of smart devices.
Additional Capabilities: Plant Care and Remote Medical Services
Samsung promises several additional functionalities for Ballie, such as reminders to water plants, access to remote medical services for elderly family members, and personalized interactions based on the detected presence of different individuals. With its front and rear cameras, Ballie can analyze its surroundings and learn user patterns for a customized experience.
Market Potential: Will Ballie Succeed?
The main question is whether these features will convince homeowners to purchase Ballie when it eventually becomes available. Home robots have historically faced challenges in gaining widespread adoption. Amazon’s recent attempt with its home robot faced hurdles, and Mayfield Robotics shut down operations before shipping any units despite promising collaborations.
Nonetheless, Samsung’s strong brand and technological prowess could give Ballie a better shot at success. Only time will tell if Ballie will become a household necessity or another tech novelty.
Conclusion
Samsung’s reintroduction of Ballie at CES 2024 highlights substantial advancements in home robotics. With improved AI capabilities, smart home integration, and unique features like projection and remote medical services, Ballie may transform how we interact with our living spaces. However, its market success remains uncertain in a sector where many have tried and failed.
Q&A Session
What is Ballie?
Ballie is a spherical home robot from Samsung, initially unveiled at CES 2020 and reintroduced with advanced AI features at CES 2024.
What are Ballie’s notable features?
Key features include a spatial lidar sensor for navigation, a 1080p projector for content display, voice and text command controls, smart home integration, and additional functions like plant care reminders and remote medical services.
How does Ballie move around the house?
Ballie utilizes a spatial lidar sensor to effectively navigate rooms and avoid obstacles.
Can Ballie control non-smart appliances?
Yes, Ballie can operate non-smart devices like air conditioners and older TVs via its built-in infrared transmitter.
How is Ballie operated?
Ballie can be controlled through voice commands or text messages and uses a chatbot to confirm requests before acting.
What sets Ballie apart from other home robots?
Ballie stands out with its projection capabilities, advanced AI for personalized interactions, and the ability to manage both smart and non-smart devices.
When will Ballie be available?
As of now, Samsung has not confirmed the release date or pricing for Ballie.
