iRobot ConnectR Offers Virtual Home Visits from Work

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iRobot, a company well known for their range of automated vacuuming robots, have taken what many would see as the next logical step in utilising their technology to produce the ConnectR, a remotely controlled robot which will allow you to keep a virtual eye on your loved ones via the internet whilst you’re tied up elsewhere.

Operated remotely via an on-screen interface using any Windows based PC with an internet connection, the iRobot ConnectR can be steered around your home using either a keyboard, mouse or even a joystick whilst allowing you to interact with those at home thanks to a two way audio and video camera which offers 220 degrees of tilt and both wide angle and close up viewing.

Great for keeping tabs on what’s going on at home when you’re working late at the office, iRobot ConnectR is due to become available at the end of 2007 for around $500 though iRobot are presently looking for field testers via their pilot program which offers units for $199 if you’re willing to assist the company with providing feedback concerning user experience and participation in publicity interviews.

Unfortunately, iRobot appears to have missed a trick with their ConnectR as the device won’t also vacuum your house as you’re zipping around chasing your children from room to room (right up until the point that the little terrors realise that you are unable to follow them upstairs).

Incidentally, if you’re looking to be a virtual presence in the workplace, you may be interested in the Giraffe Robot we featured some time ago TFTS.