Security robots will likely strengthen their appeal by focusing on the non-security applications. A more inviting and less obtrusive robot will certainly improve the acceptance of such a devise in many work environments. Additionally, this tech forward approach will benefit from the nature of how people buy. Security purchases are often reactionary in nature whereas tech purchases are typically driven by ‘wow factor’. It’s difficult to predict the size of the market for security robots but I expect this approach will be more easily adopted.
Cobalt Security/Office Robot Profile 2017
Published May 15, 2017 13:14 PM
Cobalt's robot promises a high tech design without looking like R2D2. The robot was styled by the same company that has done designs for Jawbone, Prada, Samsung, and other big consumer brands. But is a high-tech design enough to differentiate it?
UPDATE 2019: How Cobalt Robotics May Disrupt Security
Their marketing video overviews their offering below:
IPVM spoke with Cobalt Robotics CEO Travis Deyle about their uniquely styled robot and how they plan to bring it to market in the security industry. We examine key differentiators, pricing and positioning for various robot entrants.
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Comments (10)
Nick Giannakis
May 15, 2017U
Undisclosed #1
May 15, 2017The "body" of the robot is taut fabric, which the company says gives it "soft and friendly feeling".
With robots as well, beauty is only skin deep.
Brian Karas
May 15, 2017UM
Undisclosed Manufacturer #2
May 15, 2017
Think Zenbo is the best looking indoor bot now.
JH
John Honovich
Aug 05, 2017Cobalt got a feature in Wired Magazine, looks like it got a bump from the Knightscope drowning as the article emphasizes a contrast with them:
that congenial vibe is one of two big things differentiating Cobalt from other commercial robots—especially ones from Knightscope, another Silicon Valley startup and the current leader in developing security bots. Knightscope's flagship, the K5, started patrolling malls, offices, and schools in 2015, and looks pretty intimidating when it's not nose-diving into fountains. Aggressive, even—like a cross between a Dalek and Bullet Bill. The upshot is that Knightscope's robot resembles hired muscle, while Cobalt Robotics' looks like the kind of machine you might ask for directions. [emphasis added]
UI
Undisclosed Integrator #3
Sep 26, 20175000 a month! Hang on there is a robot that can walk up stairs, tackle someone, discriminate on threats and call for the police...
its called led a human lol
JH
John Honovich
Mar 30, 2018Cobalt has raised $16.5 million Series A round led by Sequoia. That's impressive, given security robots issues to date and the pedigree of Sequoia.
JH
John Honovich
May 01, 2018Cobalt has a video feature now on the WSJ that emphasizes the remote operator interacting with the robot:
JH
John Honovich
Jun 25, 2019U
Undisclosed #4
Jun 26, 2019Cobalt is very, very impressive. I've met with them a couple of times, and their entire concept is extremely well thought-out and focused on actually solving customer problems. They're honest about what they can and cannot do, and have been very open to feedback.
It's unfortunate that they get compared to Knightscope, because the two are really nothing like each other.