SPOT - Your Synthetic Best Friend
Canine Zone|February March 2020
This robotic dog is capable of a lot of amazing things, but it lacks the personality and instincts of an actual canine
Aidan Wiggill
SPOT - Your Synthetic Best Friend

Released in September 2019 and built by robotics company Boston Dynamics, Spot is a fully autonomous four-legged robot. Guided by an on-board artificial intelligence software, Spot is able to adaptively process data and draw insights out of any given environment in order to navigate and keep itself balanced while performing tasks. Spot is even able to self-correct if it falls over or encounters an impassable object. You’re also able to remotely control Spot if you encounter any areas that it cannot traverse on its own.

If you have an extra $74,500 (over one million in South African Rands) lying about, you can now purchase a Spot unit as a civilian. Spot was made available to the general public as Boston Dynamics’ first commercial product to enable non-academic and non-military users to explore what this type of robot can do in everyday situations.

This story is from the February March 2020 edition of Canine Zone.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the February March 2020 edition of Canine Zone.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM CANINE ZONEView All
Wonderful Wendy
Canine Zone

Wonderful Wendy

"We met a doggie who desperately wanted to love and be loved – our perfect match."

time-read
3 mins  |
August/September 2021
Phoebe's Story
Canine Zone

Phoebe's Story

This ugly little pup who was unwanted and unloved for so long, is now an incredibly happy, well-adjusted, self-controlled dog

time-read
5 mins  |
August/September 2021
Healing Dogs
Canine Zone

Healing Dogs

Dogs are efficient at elevating needs, and providing relaxation to humans, and making them ideal for therapy

time-read
3 mins  |
August/September 2021
Flyin' High With Amy
Canine Zone

Flyin' High With Amy

This is a story of love, courage, joy, resilience and perseverance

time-read
4 mins  |
August/September 2021
Focus On The Frosty Face Fostering Programme
Canine Zone

Focus On The Frosty Face Fostering Programme

The Cape Dachshund Rescue group’s Frosty Face Fostering Programme aims to free up space in their organisation while offering elderly dogs and retirees the chance for a once-in-a-lifetime companionship.

time-read
5 mins  |
August/September 2021
Time For Tank
Canine Zone

Time For Tank

We were both on a challenging journey, and I just knew that we were brought together to heal each other

time-read
2 mins  |
August/September 2021
Bad Dog, Or Bad Day?
Canine Zone

Bad Dog, Or Bad Day?

As on owner, you need to be aware of the daily stressors your dog may experience

time-read
3 mins  |
August/September 2021
Hidden Dangers Around The Home That Pet Parents Should Be Aware Of...
Canine Zone

Hidden Dangers Around The Home That Pet Parents Should Be Aware Of...

If you think your pet may have ingested any poisonous item, it’s best to take them to your vet as soon as possible

time-read
2 mins  |
August/September 2021
Dog Diabetes Is Not A Death Sentence
Canine Zone

Dog Diabetes Is Not A Death Sentence

With consistent management, diabetes should have a minimal impact

time-read
4 mins  |
August/September 2021
DALMATION (-ology)
Canine Zone

DALMATION (-ology)

Sweet, smart, and playful, Dalmatians are wonderful family dogs

time-read
2 mins  |
August/September 2021