Meet FirstLook

iRobot, company who brought us the Roomba, a range of small autonomous vacuum cleaners, recently dropped by the Fast Company offices with one of their latest toys.

I could never justify buying a Roomba, but have always been fascinated by them. I think between my Son and the family dog, it wouldn’t last so long…

The FirstLook however could probably survive my family, but would do a poor job at the housework. Like the Roomba it too has one dedicated role.

Boston-area firm iRobot is best known as the creators of the Roomba, the beloved floor-cleaning robots found in middle-class homes worldwide. But that isn’t all iRobot does. iRobot is a leading manufacturer of robots for scientific research, health care, law enforcement, and the military.

Targeted for use in emergency response and the military, the FirstLook is a robust surveillance robot that can withstand being thrown through windows and into the action. With its on-board camera and the ability to climb stairs thanks to its rotating flippers, this little robot is versatile.

The intention is to use it to navigate though difficult to reach or dangerous situations, providing eyes and ears to the person controlling it at a safe distance.

See the iRobot 110 FirstLook in action -

Whilst at FastCompany they took it for a spin and even through it around the office. Watch the surprise on the office workers as it bounces!

Via Fast Company