This month Suitable Technologies, manufacturer of
the Beam telepresence robot systems has unveiled its next generation
telepresence robot in the form of the BeamPro 2, which now comes equipped with
two “super-wide” 12-megapixel HD cameras enhanced with 12x digital zoom.
Together with a large 24 inch touchscreen display and included 3D depth sensors
which were an optional extra on the original Beam robot.
To further improve ergonomics and positioning while
engaging in a videoconference, the screen of the BeamPro 2 can be moved 10
inches in a vertical direction and the motion-controlled robot is equipped with
obstacle detection sensors that allow the robots six wheels to rotate and move
around objects that may hinder its movement.
Designed for crowded spaces such as hospitals,
special care facilities, manufacturing floors, classrooms and museums the
telepresence robot offers a way to engage in videoconference calls using a
self-contained easily positioned robotic platform, that can be controlled by
either local or remote participants.
The BeamPro 2 is expected to officially launch
sometime during the summer months of 2018, although no details on pricing or
worldwide availability have been announced as yet. To recap the original
BeamPro telepresence robot cost an eye watering US$ 13,950 and required an
additional US$ 400 annual subscription to function. Let’s hope Suitable
Technologies have been able to utilise available technologies to make the price
of the BeamPro 2 more competitive.
