Microduck (pollen-robotics.com)

Article summary

Microduck is a 25 cm open-source biped robot that can be trained using reinforcement learning. It comes with a range of pre-trained behaviors, including walking, sitting, and kicking, and can be further trained and customized by users. The robot is designed to be fun and educational, with a focus on machine learning and AI. It is available for pre-order in four different colorways, with an introductory price of $399.

Main themes

• robotics
• AI
• machine learning
• emotional simulation
• pet robots
• marketing and ethics

What commenters say

• The robot's ability to simulate emotions is seen as potentially misleading or deceptive by some commenters.
• Others argue that the robot's emotional expressions are clearly simulated and not intended to be taken as real emotions.
• Some commenters believe that the robot could be a useful tool for people who are unable to care for a real pet, such as those with disabilities.
• The comparison to other robot pets, such as the Sony AIBO, highlights the potential for these devices to bring joy and companionship to people's lives.
• The marketing of the robot is seen as potentially problematic by some, who argue that it is dishonest or misleading to imply that the robot has real emotions or feelings.
• The use of AI and machine learning in the robot is seen as a key feature and a major selling point by some commenters.
• The high price point of the robot is seen as a potential barrier to adoption by some commenters, who argue that it is too expensive for a toy or novelty item.