Xpider is world's 'smallest programmable spider robot'

The team behind the spider-like robot Xpider calls its product the "smallest programmable spider robot in the world." It is an odd way to advertise a device given the fact that it is not exactly clear how many programmable spider robots actually exist. However many there are, the smallest one apparently comes in at 85mm tall and a weight of 150g. Regardless of the Xpider's place in the programmable spider robot market, the team from Beijing has created a machine that looks quite appealing.

In spite of the Xpider's name, the robot actually only has five legs. The spherical center also makes the Xpider look more tick-like than spider-like, and it has one camera eye sticking out of its forehead to help the robot navigate. This miniature, five-legged, cyclops spider can do several things that robot buyers and users are probably familiar with by now. It can record videos, take photos, recognize objects and faces, and avoid obstacles.

Since the robot is programmable, it can be set up to do things such as dance when it sees a specific person in a room or send notifications when it notices strangers in the house. Given its capability, Xpider could be a good security robot for a smart home if set up the right way, similar to the likes of iPatrol Appbot Riley. The product’s legs, however, limit its movements. It would not be going up stairs, for example, so people who need that kind of functionality might want to look into a security drone.

The Xpider is one of the many interesting robotic projects coming out of China these days. The country is investing heavily in its robotics market and the money has led to some interesting designs. Robots from smaller makers tend to be simpler and based on third-party software, which is usually Android.