Sphero debuts next-generation robotic toy, the Sphero 2B

Sphero has evolved quite a bit since its debut back in late-2011. First there was the original Sphero, then the Sphero 2.0, and now comes the latest incarnation: the Sphero 2B.

The first thing you’ll notice about the next-gen Sphero is that it is no longer a sphere-shaped object at all. The new form factor features two ends with rugged tires that are designed to make it able to turn and stop at a dime. The Sphero 2B is also really fast, capable of moving up to 14 feet a second! The Sphero 2B has a battery that lasts about an hour, and is made of a durable polycarbonate that comes in black or white.

Aside from faster, redesigned hardware, the Sphero is also launching seven new applications that will work with the Sphero series of robotic toys. This brings the total library of applications up to 35 which all you to make the most out of the Android-controlled robotic device.

Just like with the previous generation, the Sphero is also fully programmable, and supports 14 different programming languages.

As for the price and release date, the Sphero 2B is expected to arrive in fall of 2014 for a price of roughly $100 (or less). If you’re interested in being one of the first to nab a Sphero 2B, you can sign up to “reserve” a chance to purchase the super-fast, programmable robo-toy.

[press]
BOULDER, CO –(Marketwired – January 05, 2014) – Orbotix today announced a new addition to the Sphero family of connected toys. Staying true to their app-controlled, robot-powered roots, Sphero 2B is a new toy that’s fun, educational, and engaging for the whole family.

“We believe in play,” says CEO Paul Berberian. “That’s why Sphero products offer many ways to play. Not just with different apps, but also by inspiring imagination through robots that are completely programmable.” Sphero 2B is also made for open play and is designed to inspire future inventors like its young co-founders.

“2B looks and drives like it’s something from the future,” says cofounder Ian Bernstein. It’s true, 2B is unlike any other toy. It takes on a new form factor, comes with interchangeable parts, and will launch with smart accessories for advanced gameplay. Powered with AI Superdrive capabilities, 2B is unreasonably fast and maneuverable. With only two points of contact, 2B can turn on a dime, launch off steep inclines, and tumble unlike anything you’ve seen.

“Sphero has been ’round for a couple years now and we wanted to take the fun experience of driving Sphero, redesign it, flip it around, speed it up, and give fans something completely new,” says cofounder Adam Wilson.

Features:

• Gameplay: Unique Driving, Multiplayer Games, Programming
• Body Styles: Black or White
• Shell: Durable Polycarbonate Body
• Interchangeable Parts: Wheels, Tires, and Hubcaps
• Speed: Up to 14 ft/s
• Connectivity: Bluetooth LE (30m)
• Compatibility & Programmability: iOS & Android with SDK’s available
• Charging: USB Cable

How to Get 2B
2B will be available worldwide for under $100 (US) starting in Fall 2014. 2B accessories and customizable parts will be announced at a later date. Starting today, fans can reserve their place in line to be the first to own the newest Sphero robot at GoSphero.com/2B

Where you can meet Orbotix at CES 2014:
You can find Orbotix at CES in the South Hall 2, booth #25505. Orbotix will also exhibit at CES Unveiled on Sunday, January 5th, and ShowStoppers on Tuesday, January 7th.

About Orbotix
We create connected toys, fusing emerging technology with the latest innovations in robotics to offer a new kind of open play experience. Founded by Ian Bernstein and Adam Wilson, passionate robotics and software engineers, we create fun robots that bring innovative mobile and augmented reality games to your smartphone. Based in Boulder, Colorado, the Orbotix team takes fun very seriously.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

CONTACT:
Chuck Lepley
310.849.6201
chuck@orbotix.com
[/press]