Amazon has announced that it will discontinue its security robot, Astro for Business, for small- and medium-sized businesses as it shifts its focus to household robotics products. The canine-like robot was initially launched for household use in 2021 and Astro for Business was introduced last November for a range of customers including retail, manufacturing, health, and wellness.
A spokesperson from Amazon stated that the decision to wind down support for Astro for Business was made in order to accelerate progress and research to enhance Astro as the best in-home robot. The home robot Astro was designed to perform tasks such as home monitoring, setting up routines and reminders, and playing music and TV shows while rolling around the house.
Amazon informed customers of the decision via email sent by Reuters. The email stated that the robots will no longer function after September 25. Customers affected by this decision will receive a $300 credit which can be used to support a replacement solution for their workplace. Furthermore, customers will also receive a refund for any unused pre-paid Astro Secure fees. This move is part of Amazon’s pivot towards household robotics products and ongoing research and development to enhance the performance and capabilities of Astro in household settings.
