Cisco and iRobot have this week unveiled a new telepresence robot they have created in the form of the new AVA 500, which has been built on the AVA platform, which was first announced way back in 2011.
Using the AVA platform, iRobot and Cisco have now created a semi-autonomous telepresence robot for businesses, packed with Cisco’s TelePresence videoconferencing software. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
Features and Capabilities
The AVA 500 telepresence robot is designed to revolutionize the way businesses conduct remote meetings and collaborations. By integrating Cisco’s advanced TelePresence videoconferencing software, the AVA 500 offers high-definition video and audio communication, ensuring that remote participants feel as if they are physically present in the meeting room. The robot’s semi-autonomous capabilities allow it to navigate through office environments, avoiding obstacles and reaching designated meeting locations without human intervention.
One of the standout features of the AVA 500 is its ability to provide a mobile, life-sized video conferencing experience. Unlike traditional stationary systems, the AVA 500 can move around the office, allowing remote users to interact with colleagues, attend meetings, and even participate in impromptu discussions. This mobility enhances the sense of presence and engagement, making remote collaboration more effective and natural.
Development and Availability
iRobot hopes to ship their new AVA 500 telepresence robot sometime next year, and the development of the new robot has just entered its beta development stage. The beta phase will involve rigorous testing and feedback from select business users to ensure that the robot meets the high standards expected by enterprise customers.
Unfortunately, no information on pricing has been released as yet for the AVA 500, but expect it to be high. However, the AVA 500 will also be available to lease for around $2,000 — $2,500 per month. This leasing option makes the technology more accessible to businesses that may not have the capital to invest in purchasing the robot outright. As soon as information comes to light, we will keep you updated as always.
Potential Impact on Business Operations
The introduction of the AVA 500 telepresence robot has the potential to significantly impact business operations, particularly in the context of remote work and global collaboration. With the rise of remote work, driven by advancements in technology and recent global events, businesses are increasingly looking for innovative solutions to bridge the gap between remote and in-office employees. The AVA 500 addresses this need by providing a seamless and immersive telepresence experience.
For example, a remote employee can use the AVA 500 to virtually “walk” through the office, stopping by colleagues’ desks for quick chats or attending meetings in different conference rooms. This level of interaction can help maintain team cohesion and foster a sense of belonging among remote workers. Additionally, the AVA 500 can be used for virtual tours, client presentations, and even remote inspections of facilities, making it a versatile tool for various business applications.
Future Prospects and Innovations
Looking ahead, the collaboration between iRobot and Cisco on the AVA 500 telepresence robot opens up exciting possibilities for future innovations. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see further enhancements in telepresence capabilities, such as improved artificial intelligence for better navigation and interaction, more advanced video and audio quality, and integration with other business tools and platforms.
Moreover, the success of the AVA 500 could pave the way for the development of specialized telepresence robots tailored to specific industries, such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. For instance, in healthcare, telepresence robots could enable remote consultations and virtual rounds, improving access to medical expertise and reducing the need for patient travel.
The AVA 500 telepresence robot represents a significant step forward in the realm of remote collaboration and communication. By combining iRobot’s expertise in robotics with Cisco’s leading videoconferencing technology, the AVA 500 offers a powerful solution for businesses looking to enhance their remote work capabilities. As the technology continues to mature, we can anticipate even greater advancements and applications in the years to come.
Source: Verge
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