In the latest that will stoke fears about robots taking over the world, Chinese firm Xiaomi recently launched a 20-pound robotic dog companion called CyberDog 2.
Similar to a well-trained live pup, the robotic companion can sit, stay and perform other actions in response to voice commands. It can also walk next to its owner at a variable pace that changes to match the owner's speed while keeping enough distance to not become an obstacle. CyberDog 2 will also react to a scratch under the chin with some cute movements and a barking sound.
In a series of recently posted X (formerly Twitter) videos, CyberDog 2 showcased some impressive tricks, including backflipping off a skateboard. This new iteration is more advanced than Xiaomi's initial attempt at a robotic companion that was introduced in August 2021.
Who Wants A Robot Doberman?
CyberDog 2 exhibits a more doglike appearance than the previous model. It looks similar to a Doberman pinscher, with muscular features and an athletic stance. Compared to the first-generation CyberDog, CyberDog 2 is smaller and lighter, weighing approximately 20 pounds and standing around 14 inches tall. While the original CyberDog sold for around $1,500, Xiaomi has announced that CyberDog 2 will retail for 12,999 yuan ($1,800). The costs contrast sharply with the $75,000 price tag for Spot, Boston Dynamics' robot dog from Boston Dynamics, a commercial-focused product used for multiple applications.
The AI-Powered Brain
The artificial intelligence (AI) that operates many of CyberDog 2's actions and other features empowers multiple "brain" system. This includes a primary brain equipped with an NX processor and two secondary brains powered by dual coprocessors. CyberDog 2 uses multiple cameras, including a 13-megapixel interactive AI camera, a 1-megapixel RGB camera and two fisheye cameras to gather information and make movement adjustments in real time. The CyberDog 2's sensory capabilities include ultrasonic, light detection and ranging (LiDAR), fisheye and force sensors, ensuring it can navigate its environment without issues.
With four limbs and the ability to reach speeds of up to 5 feet per second, the CyberDog 2 possesses dynamic balance and can recover if tipped over. Thanks to self-learning AI, which analyzed data from 30,000 generated robot dog models, the CyberDog 2 can perform motions that simulate canine behaviors. Xiaomi designed the CyberDog 2 with open-source programming and interfaces, allowing for customization.
The rise of AI in recent months continues to be a talking point of investors and mainstream media alike. The rise of ChatGPT, Bard and other large language models has helped propel AI to the forefront of a number of industries. For example, startups like AvaWatz are developing teams of AI-powered drones to work in teams to accomplish tasks.