Topic: Sony
Category: Robotics
Technorati: Linking Blogs

Sony's on a roll tonight! Sony Marketing has announced an update to their dog-like entertainment robot, AIBO. The new ERS-7M2 (what a cute name!) improves on the previous model - adding enhanced communication with PCs, the ability to use your AIBO as a video phone and a watchdog function. Best of all, AIBO now comes in black!

Sony Marketing began accepting orders for the ERS-7M2, a new model in the AIBO entertainment robot line, on 6 October. The functionality of the included software has been strengthened to extend the possibilities for enjoyable communication with AIBO. The recommended retail price of the new model is 194,250 yen.



The changes from the dog-like ERS-7 model which went on sale last year are minor. Easy switching between remote-control and autonomous modes has been made possible from a PC and autonomous mode functionality has been strengthened.

On the software side of things, AIBO-ware has been upgraded to AIBO MIND 2. Using the included AIBO Entertainment Player (Windows only) and a wireless LAN (802.11b), it is possible to communicate in various ways with AIBO via a PC.



First, using the navigator function, you can make AIBO performs actions such as "walk" and "play" while watching the vision from the in-built camera on your PC. AIBO can also be used as a video phone by listening to the AIBO mike and playing voice from your PC on the AIBO speaker. AIBO will also read inputted text via voice synthesis.

A network player function has also been added. Music files on a PC can be played back via the AIBO speaker. Playback is started by talking to AIBO or showing AIBO a previously registered CD jacket/photo.

Using the scheduler function, AIBO will inform the owner of scheduled appointments at the nominated time via actions or music. Appointments can be imported from Microsoft Outlook.

A new caretaker function has also been added to AIBO. When parked in the charging station and in caretaker mode, AIBO will automatically record an image and sound of any moving object, face or voice that it sees or hears. The owner can confirm the images/sounds on a PC or, if they are out, receive an email containing them. Other functions added include the ability to make AIBO remember certain objects via "Favorites Registration" and the ability to communicate with other AIBOs, including past models.

AIBO's basic functions, the speed of voice recognition and posture change in autonomous mode, and the reaction time to instructions have all been improved. Obstacle avoidance ability and image recognition speed have also been enhanced.

Product name	ERS-7M2
CPU	64-bit RISC/576MHz
Main memory	64MB SDRAM
Moveable	Mouth: 1, Head: 3, Ears: 1 x 2 places, Tail: 2, Legs: 3 x 4 legs, Total 20
Input/Output	Memory Stick slot, charging socket, Wireless LAN (802.11b)
Image input	350K CMOS
Sound input	Stereo microphone
Sound output	Bass-reflex speaker
Internal sensors	IR distance sensor (head, chest), speed sensor, vibration sensor, static touch sensor (head, back), chin sensor, footpad sensor
Operating time	Approx. 1.5 hrs (Charge - approx. 2.5 hrs)
Size	Approx. 180W x 278H x 319L mm (excluding ears, tail)
Weight	Approx. 1.6 kg (including battery, Memory Stick)
Colour	Pearl white / Pearl black
Price	194,250 yen

Sales will be conducted via Sony's e-commerce site "Sony Style" and affiliated stores. Shipping is expected to begin 30 October.

An upgrade service will also be available for ERS-7 AIBO-ware at a cost of 8400 yen.

Events to celebrate the announcement of ERS-7M2 will take place from 9-11 October at Tokyo Odaiba's Sony Style store. Demonstrations will also be conducted at the Sony buildings in Ginza, Tokyo and Shinsaibashi, Tokyo during the same period.

Inspired by:
http://www.itmedia.co.jp/lifestyle/articles/0410/06/news046.html