Amazon has long been a pioneer in integrating AI into everyday life, with products like Alexa transforming how we interact with technology. The Amazon Astro, a household robot designed for home monitoring, is their boldest step yet into the realm of robotics. Combining home security, smart assistant functionality, and advanced mobility, the Astro aims to be a futuristic companion for homeowners. But how well does it deliver on its promises? Here’s a detailed review of the Amazon Astro.
Overview and Key Features
The Amazon Astro is essentially a rolling smart assistant with integrated home monitoring features. Its sleek design resembles a tablet on wheels, equipped with a rotating periscope camera, a large display screen, and two wheels for mobility.
Key Features:
Mobility and Navigation:
- Powered by advanced navigation technology, the Astro can move seamlessly around your home, mapping your floorplan and avoiding obstacles.
- It uses simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) to adapt to dynamic environments, ensuring it can navigate even in homes with lots of furniture or clutter.
Home Monitoring with Ring Integration:
- Astro includes a 6-month free trial of Ring Protect Pro, allowing it to function as a mobile security guard.
- Its periscope camera extends to capture high-angle views, making it ideal for checking on hard-to-see areas.
- Users can remotely control the Astro via the Ring app to patrol their home and receive alerts when something unusual is detected.
Smart Assistant with Alexa:
- Astro functions as a rolling Alexa device, capable of playing music, setting reminders, making calls, and answering questions.
- The 10.1-inch display adds a visual element to Alexa's responses, enhancing its functionality for video calls, streaming, and more.
Person and Object Recognition:
- Astro can identify specific family members using its facial recognition technology.
- It learns to recognize common objects, allowing it to deliver items or respond to specific tasks.
Privacy and Security:
- Features like "Out of Bound Zones" let you designate areas where Astro isn’t allowed to roam.
- The microphone, camera, and motion sensors can be turned off with a single button, giving users control over their privacy.
Performance and Usability
Setup and Installation
Setting up the Astro is straightforward. Once unpacked, the device guides you through an intuitive onboarding process using its display and app integration. The robot maps your home by moving around and creating a digital floorplan. This process can take anywhere from 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of your home.
Mobility and Navigation
Astro’s mobility is one of its standout features. The robot’s ability to avoid obstacles is impressive, even in challenging environments like homes with pets or small children. However, it occasionally struggles with dark or uneven surfaces, such as carpets with deep piles or thresholds.
Security Monitoring
The integration with Ring makes Astro a competent security device. You can use the periscope camera to check locks, windows, or even the stovetop remotely. Its motion detection and the ability to patrol autonomously are useful, though some users report occasional false positives when pets move around the house.
Alexa Integration
Astro performs all standard Alexa functions, with the added benefit of mobility. For example, you can summon Astro to deliver reminders or place it near you for hands-free calls. The display provides an excellent interface for video chats, though its resolution is not on par with higher-end tablets.
Design and Build Quality
Astro’s design is both functional and endearing. Its "face," which is a digital screen displaying expressive eyes, adds a touch of personality. The build feels sturdy, though the device is not designed to handle rough handling or outdoor use. Its size makes it less obtrusive than expected, though it might feel bulky in smaller spaces.
Battery Life
Astro has a decent battery life, lasting about two hours of continuous operation. When its battery runs low, the robot autonomously returns to its charging dock. This process is reliable but slow, taking roughly 4-5 hours for a full charge.
Strengths
- Innovative Navigation: The SLAM technology and periscope camera set Astro apart from stationary smart assistants.
- Integrated Security Features: Ring Protect Pro enhances its value as a mobile home monitoring system.
- Alexa on Wheels: Having a mobile Alexa adds convenience and versatility to its already robust feature set.
- Customizable Privacy Settings: Out of Bound Zones and easy shutoff options provide peace of mind.
Weaknesses
- Limited Compatibility: While Astro integrates well with Ring, it doesn’t yet support other popular smart home ecosystems like Google Home or Apple HomeKit.
- Navigation Limitations: Although advanced, Astro struggles with some environmental challenges like uneven surfaces or tight spaces.
- Battery Life: The two-hour operational time may feel short for those wanting extensive home patrols or prolonged interaction.
Who is Astro For?
Astro is best suited for:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Early adopters who enjoy cutting-edge technology.
- Smart Home Users: Individuals already invested in Amazon’s ecosystem, particularly those with Ring devices.
- Homeowners with Pets: Astro’s ability to monitor and check on pets remotely is a valuable feature.
- Security-Conscious Individuals: Its mobile patrol and alert capabilities provide an extra layer of security.
Final Verdict
The Amazon Astro is an ambitious product that blends robotics, AI, and home automation into one device. While it excels in navigation and security monitoring, its high price tag and some usability limitations may deter casual users. For those looking to future-proof their smart home or enhance their security, Astro offers a glimpse into the potential of household robotics.
