We know Astro has multiple cameras, although it isn’t clear how many are always facing forward, but there is at least one additional telescoping camera on top of the device. This is one of the reason that robot vacuums that utilize SLAM technology are often better at avoiding obstacles in their path. SLAM technology works by tracking specific points through multiple successive frames using a single 3D camera, but multiple cameras can provide more depth perception. This means Astro can seek out a specific member of the family to pass along a message or even deliver a package to if you’ve placed something in its cargo bin. Can robots get heartburn?Īstro will be able to recognize family members, too, thanks to another feature called Visual ID. Even scattered toys won’t interfere with its navigation, although I can’t imagine a Lego rolling up inside it will be good for Astro. Some robot vacuums make use of this technology to navigate throughout the home (although some of them use lidar instead.) The ability to detect new items and dodge around them means Astro can be used in a child’s playroom. SLAM technology allows Astro to pick up on walls and obstacles in front of it, even those that weren’t there moments before. Astro can ‘see’ your homeĭespite the large eyes on its display, Astro doesn’t actually see what’s in front of it, at least not in the way you might think. I don’t doubt that Astro will move throughout your household with ease, especially given the navigational technologies in play, namely, SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping). However, Amazon promises efficient navigation through the home with Astro, and I have to say I believe it will deliver. Navigation and collision avoidance is also a challenge for robot lawn mowers. We’ve pointed out countless times how many of today’s robot vacuums fail at avoiding obstacles inside of the home.

Astroboard with bluetooth