Xiaomi Puts ‘CyberDogs’ That Can Perform Backflips Up For Adoption

Video screenshot via Xiaomi

Move over, Lassie—there’s a new robotic dog in town, and it can do backflips! Last summer, Xiaomi unveiled the CyberDog 2, a bio-inspired quadruped robot that promises to be more than just a guard dog. The robo-pooch has made several appearances since, including at the recent Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

The CyberDog 2 builds upon its predecessor, sporting a friendlier design compared to the first version’s somewhat eerie Black Mirror vibes. Think less robot dog, more Doberman with a geometric twist. While it can still perform impressive feats like backflips off a skateboard and even a “dressage shuffle,” Xiaomi positions the CyberDog 2 as a home robot.

Meet Xiaomi’s CyberDog 2, a robot dog that can backflip and run faster than you. It’s powered by AI and has 12 limbs, cameras, and sensors. It’s also open-source and customizable. Would you adopt one? 🐶 #Xiaomi #CyberDog2 #RobotDog pic.twitter.com/5gW6mvPebJ

— findsforall (@findsforall) August 15, 2023

All told, its US$3,000 price tag, nearly double the earlier variant, might leave some potential owners feeling a bit empty in the wallet.

Image via Xiaomi

This metallic hound isn’t just about tricks, though. It boasts a sophisticated “fusion sensing and decision-making system,” powered by 19 sensors that give it super vision. This allows the CyberDog 2 to navigate its environment and respond to commands with greater precision.

Video via Xiaomi

The CyberDog 2 is part of the Chinese tech giant’s broader vision for a seamlessly connected future, which it calls the Human x Car x Home smart ecosystem. 

Image via Xiaomi

So, can this robot replace your furry friend? Maybe not just yet. But the CyberDog 2 is a glimpse into a future where technology and companionship might just go paw-in-paw.

Video via Xiaomi

Image via Xiaomi

[via TechCrunch and Interesting Engineering, images via Xiaomi]