Once upon a time, Samsung was going to release Ballie, a little robot that followed you around your home. That critter isn’t happening soon, but the EBO Max hopes to fill that little round hole in your heart. You know, the one that’s also got a camera on top of it?
The EBO Max is the creation of a company called Enabot, which is pitching this little guy as a “familybot”. It’s got more in common with a robot vacuum cleaner, but it could have some utility when it comes to monitoring your pets or checking on people who have fallen over. Those overlarge eyes aren’t just for show, either. Well, they are, but they’re part of a screen that lets the little guy respond to commands with emotional cues.
EBO Max cuteness
The little wheel contraction also allows for video calls, though you’ll get better results there if you permit it to run around on your desk. A wide-angle 8MP camera facilitates those calls (or stills, if you prefer), with the sensor apparently capable of 4K capture.
Basically, Enabot has taken one of those round IP cameras and given it wheels. It’s also supposedly toting some form of artificial intelligence. That’s no longer special, but a collection of navigation sensors might prove more useful. Some larger wheels would also be handy, since the EBO Max looks like it’ll tip over if it’s not paying attention. Sadly, that’s about as likely as the company making it kick-proof.
Still, Enabot reckons someone will pay for these critters, whether they wind up booted into the nearest wall or not. Pre-order pricing has the EBO pegged at around R9,200, which isn’t the most expensive robot Enabot makes. Full retail pricing is closer to R10,000.
Amazingly, the little guy will ship here. At the pre-order price (valid until 7 May), you’ll pay ten grand with shipping. After that, expect to pay closer to R11,000… plus whatever the Customs inspector decides you over the South African government.
