The new venture marks a shift for Angle from practical robots like Roomba to more personal, companion-type robots. Advances in generative AI could enhance these robots' capabilities, making them more human-like and interactive. While previous companion robots have struggled, there is potential for success in creating robots that combine personality and practicality to improve household members' health and well-being. The exact nature of the robots being developed by Familiar Machines & Magic remains undisclosed, but they may address issues like loneliness, as suggested by one investor.
Key takeaways:
- Colin Angle, co-founder of iRobot, has launched a new startup called Familiar Machines & Magic, focusing on home robots for health and wellness.
- The company, still in stealth mode, includes former iRobot CTO Chris Jones and Ira Renfrew, who previously worked on Amazon's Scout delivery robot.
- Familiar Machines & Magic has raised $15 million and is seeking an additional $15 million, aiming to develop robots that combine personality and practicality.
- Advances in generative AI could enhance the capabilities of companion robots, making them more human-like and useful, as seen with examples like ElliQ and Sony's Aibo.