Amazon Launches Household Robot, Perfect As Children's Playmates

Astro, Amazon's home robot. (photo: amazon)

JAKARTA - Amazon.com Inc on Tuesday, September 28, announced the launch of a domestic, dog-like robot called Astro. They also have a deal with Walt Disney Co to inspire voice-controlled technology in resort hotels. The company founded by Jeff Bezos is also trying to make its virtual aide, Alexa, a bigger part of consumers' lives.

The home robot is designed to perform tasks such as home monitoring, setting routines and reminders, and can play music and TV shows while rolling around the house.

The device, which has a digital eye on a rotating screen mounted on wheels, is available at a special price of USD 999.99 and a regular price of USD 1.449.99.

Among other launches in its latest lineup are a smart thermostat, the Echo Show 15 smart display, and a new health-tracking band called Halo View.

The Echo Show 15 is wall-mountable and powered by the AZ2 Neural Edge, a processor that helps users personalize the screen.

In an effort to attract the next generation of customers or children, the company introduced Amazon Glow, a gadget for playing games, reading, or drawing while making video calls.

In partnership with Disney, they will also launch Alexa-powered voice assistants at Disney theme park hotels, along with a paid feature that will allow customers to interact with Disney characters at home.

The feature is expected to roll out next year and will allow users to interact with Disney characters with a 'Hey, Disney!' and voice commands.

Amazon has launched a number of new gadgets every year, including voice-controlled sunglasses and in-home drones, which are not yet big sellers. Devices make up a fraction of Amazon's overall sales.