Vortex by DFRobot: An intelligent robot for kids!

vortex robot
Kids' new playmate!

There's a new kid in the robotics block, and he's called Vortex by DFRobot. The robot is designed for kids and I must say, it seems pretty dope. I saw this on Kickstarter and figured it's worth the time for many of you.

This guy looks like one of those automated vacuuming bots. It's semicircular flat design has a visor at front, with a series of LEDs. It glows in variety of colors and symbolizes quite a lot of expressions. It makes some cute voice overs too! It can be completely controlled with your phone. They have an app for iOS and Android, called VortexBot.  It connects via Bluetooth and you can drive the robot within the app. The robot is powered by 4 AA batteries. They recommend rechargeable ones, which is a good idea anyway.

vortex robot
Vortex Specs sheet

Children can program this bot too, using a visual programming app called as WhenDo. It helps kids learn to program Vortex by interactive blocks, called modules. They can be rearranged to make your own sequence of movement and actions. Looks like this programming app is only available for iOS at the moment.

There's even a community called Scratch, where people can design and upload their own programs and maps for Vortex. Scratch also appears to be some sort of a programming environment, for the bot.
Seems like there's a geeky and creative future awaiting the kids! I think it's a great idea to introduce robots to children and have them interested in that amazingly vast field. It's on Kickstarter and you can check them out if you're interested. They've cleared their pledge and are taking preorders now. 

Click here to visit them.

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