HTG Reviews The Romo: Telepresence Robot Review
A Look at the Romo Robot
Typically, our reviews at How-To Geek focus on more technical subjects. These often include advanced routers, innovative streaming video technologies, and other decidedly practical devices.
However, occasionally we encounter a product that prioritizes enjoyment. The Romo robot is a prime example – a uniquely designed device that is remarkably endearing.
Initial Impressions
The Romo distinguishes itself by being a genuinely delightful gadget. It’s a departure from the usual, more serious tech we examine.
Its charm is immediately apparent, making it difficult to resist forming a positive impression. The robot’s playful nature is a key aspect of its appeal.
What Makes Romo Special?
Unlike many robots focused on complex tasks, Romo’s primary function is entertainment. It offers a refreshing change of pace.
The device’s appeal lies in its simple, yet effective, design and its ability to evoke a sense of fun. It’s a product that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Romo is a small, mobile robot that can be controlled via a smartphone or tablet. It’s a quirky and lovable piece of technology.
Its unique character and ease of use contribute to a thoroughly enjoyable experience. It’s a device that’s hard not to appreciate.
Introducing the Romo: A Programmable Telepresence Robot
The Romo represents a unique approach to robotics, functioning as a programmable telepresence device. Unlike conventional robots, it doesn't possess integrated electronics; instead, it leverages the processing power and visual capabilities of an iPhone or iPod touch to operate.
Essentially, purchasing a Romo provides you with a robust, tank-like base powered by a battery, designed to securely hold your iOS device. This base acts as a mobile platform, transforming your iPhone or iPod Touch into a robotic companion when paired with the dedicated Romo software.
The Romo can operate independently, utilizing only the attached iOS device, or it can be controlled remotely using a second iOS device – such as an iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad – running the companion remote control application. Notably, remote control isn’t limited to other iOS devices; a computer with a web browser can also be used for operation.
In standalone mode, the device is capable of user interaction, executing scripts for automated actions, and, at more advanced levels, even supporting custom programming that extends beyond basic scripting capabilities.
When connected to a companion app or web interface, the Romo evolves into a fully functional telepresence robot. Users can remotely steer the device, even across internet connections, and utilize features like video streaming, still image capture, and two-way audio-video communication, exploring any area accessible to the tank-like base.
Romo Models and Compatibility
Two Romo models are currently available, differing only in their connector type. The iPhone 4 model utilizes the older 30-pin connector and is compatible with the iPhone 4, iPhone 4s, and 4th generation iPod Touch. The iPhone 5 model features the Lightning connector, supporting the iPhone 5, iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C, and 5th generation iPod Touch.
The rubber base’s grip-arms exhibit considerable flexibility, allowing for gentle adjustments to accommodate devices like the iPhone 6, although this isn’t officially supported and may restrict the cradle’s tilting range. Both models are charged via a USB Mini B port situated underneath the unit, between the treads.
Despite being listed at the same price on the official Romo website, the iPhone 4 model is often more affordable when purchased through retailers like Amazon. The iPhone 5 model is priced at $145, while the iPhone 4 model is available for $69. Considering the possibility of acquiring a used or carrier-ineligible iPhone 4S for under $100 on platforms like Craigslist or eBay, the total cost of a Romo setup with a dedicated iPhone 4 unit could be less than the price of the iPhone 5 base alone.
It’s crucial to remember that utilizing the Romo software’s telepresence features requires an iPhone 4S or a newer model.
This assessment is based on testing with the iPhone 5 model and a 5th generation iPod Touch; however, the functionality and software remain consistent across all Romo generations.
Currently, the Romo is exclusively compatible with iOS devices. The company has stated that developing an Android-based version is not planned due to the fragmentation of the Android ecosystem – the vast number of devices, OS versions, and manufacturer customizations would make creating a universally compatible Romo prohibitively expensive and time-consuming.
Setting Up Your Romo Robot
The Romo robot is incredibly easy to set up. Begin by securely mounting your iOS device into the gray rubber cradle located on the Romo unit itself. The system will then automatically prompt you to download the necessary Romo software.
Two applications are available on the AppStore: Romo and Romo Control. The primary Romo application is essential for the device physically connected to the base, providing the core functionality and access to games.
Whether you intend to use the Romo as a self-contained unit or with a companion control application, downloading the main Romo app onto the device attached to the base is a prerequisite. This application powers the robot’s movement, creates its virtual facial expressions, and unlocks the majority of its interactive features.
If you wish to utilize additional iOS devices for control purposes, download the Romo Control app onto those devices. The main Romo app is not needed on these companion devices, as it is exclusively for the device directly linked to the base.
Before launching the application for the first time, it is highly recommended to position the Romo in a spacious area, such as the center of a large table or, ideally, on the floor. Upon initial activation, the robot exhibits enthusiastic movement and exploration; providing ample space prevents accidental falls.
The first time you run the Romo application on the attached iOS device, a short introductory video—approximately two minutes in length—is displayed. This video establishes a narrative explaining how your iOS device has gained a robotic persona.
The storyline presents the robot as having been sent to Earth to seek your assistance in preparing for the intergalactic robot olympics. It emphasizes the need for your help to train and prepare the robot for the upcoming trials.
The video is exceptionally well-produced and exemplifies the attention to detail invested in the Romo’s design. Both children and adults involved in our testing expressed immediate curiosity after viewing it.
Following the video, the animated face of your robot guides you through a series of straightforward setup questions, including your name and the desired name for your robot. (Despite objections from some colleagues, we opted for “Robbie” rather than “Tony Romo”.)
After this brief setup process, you are immediately immersed in a guided tutorial. This tutorial is structured as a series of mini-games, similar to how games like Angry Birds introduce players to their mechanics and features.
This approach effectively combines instruction with entertainment, making the learning process engaging. A detailed examination of the mission sequence and other device features will be provided in the subsequent section.
Exploring the Capabilities of the Romo Robot
Typically, we refrain from including promotional videos from manufacturers within our product reviews. However, in the instance of the Romo robot, the company’s promotional video effectively demonstrates the majority of its functionalities. It showcases almost everything the robot can achieve, excluding custom programming of iOS applications for interaction, within a concise two-minute timeframe.
We are willing to overlook the inclusion of children’s laughter in the video, as our practical testing with children and neighborhood youngsters revealed a similar level of enthusiasm when engaging with the Romo.
Let's examine the function-selection screen, as it appears on the iOS device connected to the Romo unit, to detail the actions presented in the video. Five distinct categories are available for selection.
Each category provides a unique experience with the Romo. It is beneficial to explore all options to fully understand the range of entertainment it offers.
Missions
As previously discussed, the Missions section functions as a comprehensive tutorial, designed to thoroughly acclimate users to the Romo robot. The missions are structured in a highly accessible manner.
The level of challenge is carefully calibrated, ensuring both children and adults can readily grasp the robot’s operational mechanics and programming principles.
Initial tasks involve basic movement commands, such as directing the robot to move forward and backward at varying velocities.
Progressing through the missions, users learn to program more intricate movement sequences, including precise turns and the execution of geometric patterns.
Furthermore, the Romo can be taught to identify individuals, distinguish colors, and respond to other interactive stimuli.
Error Handling and Progression
Should an error occur during a mission, the Romo provides immediate feedback, pinpointing the mistake – for example, a forgotten speed adjustment after a turn.
Users are consistently given the opportunity to retry missions and achieve a perfect three-gold-star rating for each completed task.
This iterative process reinforces learning and encourages mastery of the Romo’s capabilities.
The Lab Environment
The Lab provides an opportunity to expand your robot’s capabilities and enhance its existing skills. This feature functions as a user-friendly visual programming interface for the Objective C language. It enables the creation of stimulus and input-driven instructions for the Romo robot.
Don't be concerned if your child demonstrates an interest in the underlying programming concepts. Romo provides educational materials, such as this handout, to facilitate understanding. However, even children with basic reading skills can effectively utilize the drag-and-drop interface to design scripted behaviors for the Romo.
Programming Romo's Responses
These programmed responses dictate the Romo’s actions in response to various environmental cues. These cues include loud sounds, collisions with obstacles, and low-light conditions.
For instance, you can configure the Romo to capture an image upon detecting a clap, to move backward slowly after bumping into a wall, or to activate its indicator light when it loses its orientation in darkness.
Multiple instructions can be linked together to create complex sequences. Should your Romo encounter a wall, it could be programmed to take a picture, reverse its course, activate an alarm, and then rotate while flashing its light until assistance arrives.
Romo's Chase and Line Following Capabilities
The Chase function allows you to program Romo to track a moving object after initial training. This requires a single-color object with a vibrant hue for optimal performance.
The training process involves presenting the object to Romo and confirming its color recognition. During testing, items like tennis balls, sizable play balls, and vividly colored shirts proved effective.
Conversely, objects with complex patterns and living creatures, such as cats, were not successfully tracked. Interestingly, a canine test subject displayed complete disinterest in Romo, remaining unperturbed by its movements and sounds.
Felines, however, reacted with alarm, perceiving Romo as a threat. A group of ferrets, on the other hand, enthusiastically pursued Romo, exhibiting playful behavior until exhaustion.
Line Follow is closely related to Chase, functioning as a natural progression of the same underlying technology. This mode utilizes a colored line – blue painter’s tape is recommended due to its brightness, affordability, and gentle adhesive properties.
Romo will then autonomously navigate along the designated path, mimicking its object-tracking behavior in Chase mode. The tape effectively creates a "racecourse" for Romo to follow.
A demonstration of both Chase and Line Follow in operation can be viewed in the product video provided above.
Romo Control
Beyond the engaging missions, trick-teaching capabilities, and the enjoyment derived from chase and follow functionalities, the telepresence feature offers a significant amount of entertainment.
Utilizing the telepresence function requires either a second iOS device on the same Wi-Fi network as the Romo, or a Romo connected to a Wi-Fi network with internet access, alongside a computer with internet connectivity and a compatible browser – such as Chrome or Firefox – capable of accessing romo.tv. This allows for remote control of your Romo via the web-based interface, as illustrated in the screenshot above.
While the remote telepresence functionality performed admirably when operational, instances of complete failure were also observed. The point-to-point remote conferencing is facilitated by a third-party service, with which Romo experienced difficulties during the latter stages of our evaluation. Potential buyers intending to use Romo as a Skype-like communication tool with family should be aware that its current operational model depends on this external provider for connection establishment. (We anticipate either resolution of these issues with the current provider or the internal development of this service, as it represented the sole aspect of the Romo experience that wasn't consistently enjoyable and seamless).
The iOS-to-iOS connection established over a local Wi-Fi network demonstrates markedly improved speed, and the touchscreen interface proves considerably more intuitive.
When utilizing the iOS remote control, users can maneuver the Romo with onscreen controls, capture photographs, and modify the robot’s expressions. Three distinct steering methods are available: a slider-based control where the thumb is positioned centrally on the screen and moved around (resembling the omni-directional controls found on gaming consoles), a skid-steer style control allowing independent management of each tank tread, and a traditional joystick-style controller.
The skid-steer control, depicted in the screenshot above, was our preferred method. With skillful thumb coordination, the Romo could be propelled rapidly around the room and execute remarkably tight turns. This speed reaches a maximum of 1.1 feet per second (0.75 miles per hour).
Although the video quality during remote control/telepresence mode isn't exceptional – comparable to older webcams and not fully utilizing the iPhone/iPod Touch camera’s potential – it functions adequately and provides considerable amusement.
Expanding Romo's Functionality
For those seeking a toy with lasting appeal, extending beyond a young child’s initial engagement, the Romo offers a Software Development Kit (SDK). This SDK enables sophisticated programming capabilities, surpassing the features available in the standard Romo application.
Consider this innovative application developed by a resourceful Romo user: control functionality implemented through the Pebble smartwatch.
The SDK serves as an excellent method to sustain interest in the Romo across varying age groups. It also provides a means for a single child to continue exploring the Romo’s potential as they mature.
While the fundamental operations of the Romo may sufficiently engage an elementary school student, a child in middle or junior high school can significantly broaden their skills. They can delve into the Romo’s core programming by creating custom applications using the SDK.
Currently, the sole limitation of the SDK is its compatibility, being exclusively available for the Mac OS X operating system.
A Comprehensive Evaluation: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Final Assessment
Having extensively tested the Romo robot, observed its use by both adults and numerous children, and subjected it to rigorous trials – including accidental drops, indoor races, and even playful interactions with pets – a thorough evaluation is warranted.
Positive Attributes: What Works Well
The Romo demonstrates a remarkable level of engagement. It consistently captured the attention of users across a wide age range. Its intuitive interface allows for quick mastery of its core functions.
Furthermore, the device’s compact size and robust construction contribute to its appeal. It proved surprisingly resilient during testing, withstanding considerable handling.
Areas for Improvement: Identifying the Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, the Romo isn't without its limitations. Some users found the initial setup process slightly complex, requiring a degree of technical aptitude.
Additionally, the robot’s performance can be affected by certain surface types. Highly textured or uneven floors sometimes presented challenges to its navigation.
Final Judgement: A Balanced Perspective
Overall, the Romo presents a compelling proposition. It successfully blends entertainment and educational value in a portable package.
While minor improvements could be made to streamline the setup and enhance performance on varied surfaces, its core functionality and engaging nature are undeniable. The Romo offers a unique and enjoyable experience for users of all ages.
Considering its durability, ease of use after initial setup, and the sheer entertainment value it provides, the Romo earns a positive recommendation.
Positive Aspects of the Romo Robot
The Romo robot is undeniably charming. Its appealing design is likely to elicit a positive reaction from most observers.
Learning to operate the device is made enjoyable through its game-like tutorial system. This extended series of lessons effectively guides users through the robot’s functionalities.
The Romo Control app offers a variety of control schemes, providing a flexible and intuitive driving experience. The skid-steering method proved to be particularly enjoyable during testing.
Both the robot’s software and the companion iOS app are remarkably user-friendly. Accessibility is high, requiring only fundamental reading comprehension.
The tank treads performed surprisingly well. They demonstrated a notable resistance to accumulating pet hair, exceeding expectations.
Battery life is a significant strength. Two hours of continuous operation are achievable, but typical usage patterns – characterized by intermittent activity – result in considerably longer playtime between charges.
Key Benefits Summarized
- The robot’s aesthetic appeal is immediately noticeable.
- The tutorial system facilitates a fun and engaging learning process.
- Multiple control options enhance usability and driver preference.
- Software is designed for broad accessibility.
- Tank treads exhibit impressive resistance to debris.
- Extended playtime is enabled by efficient battery performance.
Potential Drawbacks of the Romo Robot
Despite our positive experiences with the Romo, certain design aspects and functionalities present potential concerns.
Safety Considerations
The Romo’s design, which involves being positioned on a dock, introduces a risk. A child’s accidental fall onto the device could potentially cause damage or injury.
For households with particularly active or accident-prone children, the Romo might not be the most suitable choice.
Lack of Fall Protection
The Romo lacks integrated edge-detection capabilities. This means that when operated on tables or other elevated surfaces, it can easily roll off the edge.
Users should exercise caution and ensure a safe operating environment to prevent accidental falls.
Audible Output
The Romo generates a noticeable amount of noise during operation. It functions similarly to a small, motorized remote control vehicle in terms of sound.
While this wasn't entirely unexpected, it's worth noting that the robot is relatively loud.
Telepresence Reliability
The remote telepresence feature, while impressive when functioning correctly, can be unreliable.
Issues stemming from the third-party service provider can lead to intermittent connectivity and a less-than-optimal user experience.
Dependability of this feature is subject to external factors beyond the direct control of the Romo’s hardware.
Final Assessment:
Ultimately, the Romo functions as a playful device, albeit one that represents a significant investment. However, it delivers an exceptionally enjoyable experience, proving highly popular with both children and adults.
The Romo actively stimulates problem-solving skills in children, prompting them to navigate instructions in preparation for robotic competitions. Furthermore, its open Software Development Kit (SDK) provides opportunities for expansion, allowing the toy to evolve alongside the child and cultivate an early interest in coding.
Exceptional Engagement
Should your budget accommodate this entertainment option, we struggle to identify any compelling reason *not* to acquire the Romo for a child with a passion for robotics. Each child we introduced to the Romo demonstrated immediate fascination, eagerly initiating interaction and independently exploring its features.
Children particularly enjoyed the process of "training" the robot, which concurrently fostered their own understanding of the device’s operation. Our daughter, who typically doesn't readily embrace toys, enthusiastically declared after a week of play, "I adore Robbie! He’s incredibly intelligent. He’s mastered all his maneuvers and can now navigate inclines!"
This enthusiastic response speaks volumes about the Romo’s appeal and effectiveness.