Ninebot has introduced the coolest Segway yet: the Segway Robot.
The device works in the same way as other self-balancing Segways, with gyro stabilisation and steering done with the legs.
But once you step off, it transforms into a robot helper companion that can drive itself around, avoiding obstacles and communicating with you.
Ninebot showed off the robot at CES 2016, demonstrating its voice capabilities and ability to navigate around an on-stage living room set up.
The robot also has a livestreaming camera and facial recognition, and uses Intel’s RealSense technology to avoid collisions.
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It’s ‘head’ is a screen which folds out once you step off and press a button and the robot will follow you around, carry things for you, take photos, and can even be made to follow other people.
The device has a top speed of 18kph and can travel up to 30km.
Beijing-based Ninebot bought rival US company Segway in April of 2015 with the help of a £54m investment from Chinese electronics company Xiaomi.
The resulting Ninebot mini was a smaller, more affordable Segway which more closely resembled a self-balancing ‘hoverboard’ type scooter.
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But with the Segway Robot, Ninebot has taken things up a notch and we can’t wait for the day we finally get our own robot companion, although a release date is yet to be announced.
The latest device is the result of an ongoing development project and a developer’s klt will be released in the second half of this year.
The only thing better than the adorable robot helper however, is the poorly translated Segway website which offers such marketing gems as ‘the future is interesting!’ and ‘Take a ride. Sure. Want to have more?’
Yes we do, Segway. Yes we do.
Check out our CES 2016 hub for a concise rundown of all the CES action.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
