Sphero Launch New App-Controlled Robot – Ollie!

October 19, 2014

Sphero, leaders in connected play, announced today the launch of their next generation app-controlled robot initially introduced as Sphero 2B at CES in January, Ollie takes connected play to the next level by combining the technology that Sphero 2.0 is known for with innovative controls and integrated gameplay for a whole new experience.

Engineered for high performance driving and tricks, Ollie has the ability to:
• Launch over the competition at unreasonably high speeds (drives up to 14 MPH), and thanks to the tubular design, can do so with complete control and agility.
• Execute tricks including spin, drift, jump and flip moves.
• Through apps, provide automatic feedback and points based on the difficulty of the maneuvers and tricks performed.

Users will be able to customise their Ollie with a collection of accessories and parts launching in time for Holiday ’14. Accessories such as nubby tyres, turbo tyres and ultra tyres will give users a completely different driving experience. To enhance the play experience, a Bluetooth enabled ramp is also in the works (the ramp will directly interact with the Ollie app).

Additionally, a durable polycarbonate shell protects Ollie, allowing it to tumble and keep on rollin’. Ollie has the same familiar Sphero 2.0 glow, but is powered by USB charging (vs. Sphero’s inductive charging). Bluetooth LE also allows for instant connectivity by simply placing your smartphone or tablet next to Ollie.

“We are leading the connected play category and want to help shape the future of the toy industry,” said Paul Berberian, CEO, Sphero. “Connected Play is more than just hardware, it’s about an integrated play experience that also depends on great software. Ollie brings this entire experience to the next level.”

We got to play around with both the Sphero 2.0 and the Ollie and both entertained a group of grown men for far much longer than should be allowed at our age! It is incredibly quick and quite remarkable that our mobile phones can help something generate such speed. One thing that is worth noting is that you will not be an expert straight away; part of the fun of the Ollie is developing your skills and showing off to your friends your new tricks and skills. We hit a few random peoples legs and belongings before we had it whizzing around with skill and finesse. We found the battery life fine and enjoyed that you could control Ollie from long distances – no running alongside it as was so common with traditional old school remote-controlled cars. With Christmas just around the corner we predict this will be a popular gift for children and adults alike!