There is a growing preference for pet robots that use artificial intelligence. The American company Boston Dynamics is a leader in the field of robotics with its famous robotic dog named Spot. Chinese tech company Wellian has developed a Chinese version of the Sport, called the Alpha Dog, which is already on sale in China for 16,000 yuan ($2,400). Compared to the $74,500 price tag for the Spot, this is without a doubt a much cheaper version.
AlphaDog uses sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) to perform tasks, and Wellian says future updates will further expand the robot dog’s capabilities to perform a range of applications, including controlling the visually impaired, barking, and even executing voice commands from its owner.
Walian says the AlphaDog is very similar to a real dog and can reach a top speed of 9 mph, making it one of the fastest robots at the moment. Alpha Dog can also keep its balance even when kicked by people. According to Welian’s chief technical officer Ma Jie, AlphaDog can detect the degree of friction and the condition of the ground to adjust the height, pace, and adapt to the environment.
Wellian has deployed 5G technology so that AlphaDog can perform tasks autonomously. In the first month after the release of Alpha Dog, more than 1,800 units were sold. According to Willian, most of the current orders came from computer developers, tech enthusiasts, and children.
It remains to be seen how soon Welian will launch all the necessary updates that will turn AlphaDog into a guide for visually impaired people, or a dog that can deter intruders with a threatening bark. Obviously, these aspects are being developed by several robotics firms around the world.