Amazon's Astro home robot has fans but looks destined for the 'trash heap.' Why it's trying again
Amazon has formed a new home robotics team and is hiring for a “new-to-world robot product,” according to CNBC’s analysis of job posts.
Amazon's revived push into home robotics comes as its previous foray, the Astro home robot, has struggled to gain traction. Despite having fans, the device appears to have failed to resonate with the broader market, potentially dooming it to obsolescence. The e-commerce giant's decision to form a new home robotics team and hire for a completely new robot product suggests it's looking to learn from past mistakes and create a more successful offering.
The original Astro robot was pitched as a security-focused device that could patrol homes and provide real-time video feeds. However, it faced stiff competition from established players in the smart home security space, and its high price point may have limited its appeal. By starting from scratch, Amazon may be able to address some of the issues that plagued Astro and create a more compelling product that better meets consumer needs.
As Amazon looks to make a bigger splash in the home robotics market, industry watchers will be keeping a close eye on its new product development efforts. Key factors to watch include the specifications and features of the new robot, its pricing, and how it integrates with Amazon's existing ecosystem of smart home devices. Additionally, it will be important to see how Amazon plans to differentiate its offering from competitors and address any potential concerns around data security and user privacy.
Originally reported by cnbc.com. Trade-News adds analysis for finance & markets readers.