Amazon has decided to discontinue its Astro for Business robot, bringing an abrupt end to a product that seemed to have potential in the enterprise sector. Despite initial interest, Amazon has made the strategic decision to shift its focus completely to home robotics. This move has left many wondering about the fate of the 20-pound wheeled robots that will stop working on September 25th, with Amazon offering full refunds and credits to customers who purchased the $2,349.99 bot.
The company’s VP of hardware engineering has expressed his belief that investing resources in home robotics is the way forward, leaving the Astro for Business program to be terminated. While Amazon remains committed to delivering consumer robotics solutions to households, the discontinuation of the business robot has raised concerns about the fate of these now obsolete devices. The decision to focus solely on consumer products has sparked speculation about the potential for a successor to the Astro for Home in the future.
Existing customers of Astro for Business have been informed about the discontinuation of the product and the measures being taken by Amazon to address the situation. Customers can expect full refunds for their device purchases, with additional credits being offered to support their workplace needs. While the discontinuation will render the devices non-functional, Amazon is providing options for recycling the devices and ensuring the deletion of personal data.
The internal memo from Amazon highlights the company’s commitment to advancing consumer robotics technology for the home. The decision to discontinue Astro for Business is seen as a way to streamline resources and accelerate progress in the development of in-home robotic experiences. While the pivot may not have been welcomed by all, Amazon remains focused on delivering innovative solutions for customers in the future.
The end of Astro for Business signifies a shift in Amazon’s priorities towards consumer robotics and the potential for future advancements in the field. While the fate of the business robots may be sealed, the focus on home robotics opens up new possibilities for innovation and growth. As Amazon looks towards the future, it remains to be seen what developments will arise from the company’s dedication to reinventing the home robotics landscape.
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