Sphero’s Bolt Plus Robot Has a Screen Parents Would Want Their Kids to Look At

Sphero, renowned for its innovative educational robots, has unveiled an exciting upgrade to its popular Bolt robotic ball. The new Bolt Plus features a high-resolution LCD screen, enhancing its capability as a STEM tool designed to teach kids the fundamentals of programming.

From RC Ball to Educational Powerhouse

Sphero initially captured the market with a simple remote control ball steered via a smartphone. The company then achieved massive success with the creation of a miniature BB-8 droid from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which became the must-have toy during the 2015 holiday season. Three years later, Sphero shifted its focus from entertainment to education, ending its partnership with Disney to concentrate on products like the original Bolt robot, which offered robust programming capabilities through a mobile app.

Enhanced Visual Feedback with LCD Display

While the Bolt and Bolt Plus appear similar — both featuring a waterproof plastic sphere encasing a rolling robot — the new Bolt Plus distinguishes itself with a significant upgrade. The original Bolt's limited 8x8 LED matrix display has been replaced by a full-color 128x128 LCD panel. This enhancement not only makes the screen more entertaining but also significantly more useful for educational purposes.

Interactive Learning with Real-Time Feedback

The improved screen can now display over 650 vibrant graphics and playful animations, making programming with the Bolt Plus more engaging for kids. More importantly, it can show real-time sensor data, providing additional context to help young programmers troubleshoot and understand the code controlling the robot. This real-time feedback is crucial in a learning environment, offering immediate insights into the robot’s actions and responses.

New Features for Enhanced Functionality

The Bolt Plus isn't just about a better display. It also introduces new tools in the Sphero app, such as the ability to program the robot to roll specific distances. This precision programming capability can help children learn more about control systems and movement algorithms. Additionally, the "Shake to Wake" feature quickly brings the robot out of its power-saving mode and reconnects it to a mobile device, making it more user-friendly and efficient.

Availability and Pricing

The Bolt Plus is now available for preorder at $199 for a single unit, with shipping expected in August. Sphero, now focusing primarily on the educational market, offers bundled options for schools that wish to equip entire classrooms with these advanced learning tools. Moreover, there’s a trade-in promotion for owners of the original Sphero Bolt, who can receive a $70 discount on the new Bolt Plus.

Conclusion

Sphero’s Bolt Plus is set to revolutionize how children learn programming and interact with educational robots. The upgraded LCD screen, combined with enhanced features and real-time feedback, makes it an invaluable tool for teaching STEM concepts in a fun and engaging way. With its focus on education, Sphero continues to lead the way in integrating advanced technology with interactive learning.

Stay tuned to Kushal Bharat Tech News for more updates on innovative educational tools and cutting-edge technology.