Earlier this year, Pudu Robotics introduced an upgraded version of its delivery and reception robot, the KettyBot Pro. Designed for use in high-traffic environments, the KettyBot Pro enhances operational efficiency while offering businesses new opportunities for customer engagement. This robot builds on the success of its predecessor by improving navigation, adding smart object detection, and incorporating a mobile advertising platform. These new features aim to help businesses provide a more streamlined customer experience, particularly in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and restaurants.
Key features of KettyBot Pro
The KettyBot Pro has several new features designed to improve service delivery and customer interaction:
Enhanced navigation with advanced cameras
One of the most significant improvements in the KettyBot Pro is its enhanced ability to navigate narrow and crowded spaces. Equipped with a RGBD depth camera with a wider field of view, the robot can detect and avoid obstacles with greater precision. This upgrade allows the KettyBot Pro to pass through spaces as narrow as 52cm, down from 55cm in previous versions, making it more adaptable to busy environments like dining rooms and store aisles.
Smart tray inspection for automated service
The introduction of smart tray inspection is another noteworthy advancement. Using a fisheye camera, the KettyBot Pro can automatically detect whether an object is present on its tray. For example, when a customer picks up their order, the robot recognizes the task as complete and proceeds to its next delivery without needing human intervention. This automation reduces the need for manual monitoring and allows the robot to work independently in environments where efficiency is key.
Mobile advertising platform
The 18.5-inch screen on the KettyBot Pro transforms it into a mobile advertising platform. Through the PUDU Merchant Management Platform, businesses can easily edit and display promotional content, including advertisements, menu updates, or marketing videos. This feature is particularly useful in restaurants and retail settings where businesses can promote their offerings directly to customers while the robot is in operation.
Customization for customer interaction
The KettyBot Pro offers extensive customization options through the PUDU Open Platform, allowing businesses to tailor the robot’s appearance, voice, and behavior. For instance, themed restaurants can program the robot to display characters or lines related to the theme. Hotels might use the robot to deliver personalized greetings or special messages to guests. This level of customization helps create more engaging and memorable experiences for customers.
New aesthetic options
To better suit various settings, the KettyBot Pro is available in new color schemes. In addition to the original White & Yellow and Yellow & Black designs, businesses can now choose Pure Black, which is seen as a more premium option for settings like luxury hotels and business venues. These color options allow businesses to integrate the robot into different environments more seamlessly.
Addressing labor challenges
One of the driving factors behind the increasing adoption of service robots like the KettyBot Pro is the ongoing labor shortage in industries such as retail, hospitality, and restaurants. Businesses are turning to robots to maintain service levels without overburdening their staff. The KettyBot Pro helps in this regard by handling repetitive tasks like delivering food, guiding customers, or assisting with order returns.
According to Pudu Robotics, the KettyBot Pro complements human staff rather than replacing them. By taking care of routine tasks, the robot allows staff members to focus on more customer-centric responsibilities, such as providing personalized service or managing customer concerns.
Global expansion and demand
Pudu Robotics has seen significant growth in demand for its service robots, particularly in the United States and other global markets. The company reported $100 million in revenue in 2022 and is expanding its production capacity to meet growing demand. Pudu Robotics is currently building two new factories near Shanghai to triple its annual production. These facilities will support the company’s global operations, allowing more businesses to adopt robotic solutions like the KettyBot Pro.
The company’s robots are already in use across more than 60 countries, with applications spanning industries such as restaurants, retail, healthcare, and entertainment. Pudu Robotics has shipped over 70,000 units since its founding, highlighting the widespread appeal and utility of its service robots.
Pricing and availability
Although specific pricing details for the KettyBot Pro were not mentioned in the launch information, the original KettyBot was priced at approximately $9,500, giving an indication of the potential price range for this upgraded model. Businesses interested in purchasing or learning more about the KettyBot Pro’s capabilities can contact Pudu Robotics through their official channels for detailed pricing and availability information.
Product page: Pudu Robotics
