There is a growing preference for robopets which are robots using artificial intelligence (AI) to perform sometimes extraordinary tasks. US-based firm Boston Dynamics is a leading light in robotics, with its famous robotic dog called Spot. A Chinese tech firm, Welian has now developed the Chinese version of Spot, called AlphaDog, which is already on sale in China for 16,000 yuan ($2,400). Compared to the $74,500 price tag of Spot, this is, without doubt, a far cheaper version.

AlphaDog uses sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) to perform several tasks, and Welian says that future upgrades will further expand the robotic dog’s capability to carry out a whole host of applications, including guiding the visually impaired, barking, and even carrying out voice commands from its owner.

Welian says AlphaDog is very similar to a real dog, and it can get to a top speed of 9 miles per hour, placing it among the fastest robots presently. AlphaDog also can retain its balance even when kicked by humans. It can determine the amount of friction and ground conditions to adjust its height, adjust its pace, and adapt to its environment, according to Welian’s chief technical officer, Ma Jie.

Welian has deployed 5G technology to make AlphaDog carry out tasks autonomously. More than 1,800 units have been sold within the first month of the release of AlphaDog. According to Welian, much of the current orders were from computer developers, tech enthusiasts, and kids.  

It remains to be seen how soon Welian will incorporate all the necessary upgrades that would transform AlphaDog into a visually impaired guide, a dog capable of deterring intruders through a menacing barking spree, and being able to communicate via voice prompts from its owner. These aspects are obviously under development by several robotics firms across the world.

Recall that Boston Dynamics’ Spot recently participated in a combat exercise involving humans and robots in France, carrying out reconnaissance missions during the exercise.

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