Vector 2.0

What it's for

Vector 2.0 is a small robot that lives on a desk and behaves like a pet: it blinks, reacts to touch and listens for commands. The manufacturer names entertainment and companionship as its main uses. It moves on tracks and has a camera, a microphone array and a touch sensor. The Vector is not a work tool but a piece of atmosphere, and the same goes for the home (homes) or a school or university (schools, universities), where it can show children what companion robotics is. Full functionality, meaning voice commands, cloud AI and ChatGPT integration, requires a subscription of 11.99 USD per month or 99.99 USD per year. Without it you are left with a much poorer robot. For learning to code, Vector works only to a limited degree, so for classrooms and robotics clubs it is better to look at the models described in “Educational Robots for Schools and Universities”. If you are looking for a companion robot for the home, you can compare it with the solutions in the category “Home robots”.

Who it's for

Makes sense for: gadget enthusiasts and collectors who want a desktop companion with character and who accept the subscription and the risk tied to the company's condition.

Who it does not suit: schools and companies that need dependable support, a warranty and a stable service. The Pennsylvania Attorney General sued Digital Dream Labs in September 2024 over problems with order fulfillment and refunds. Nor is it a robot to help around the house: it has no arms, does not clean and does not watch over the apartment. The manufacturer does not state clearly whether it is available in Poland.

Deployments

Vector is a consumer product, and its role in education and offices is demonstrative. For a fuller picture of robots in schools, see “Educational Robots for Schools and Universities” and “How to Start Learning Robotics in Poland”.

There are several alternatives. Eilik is the closest desktop companion and the natural rival to Vector. EMO has a similar character and good facial expression. Loona Petbot is larger and more "pet-like", good for children. Enabot EBO Air 2 is more a mobile camera than a companion, but can be cheaper to run. Finally there are Samsung Ballie and LG Q9, announcements from larger corporations that still come without a firm offer; if you care about a product you can buy today, the choice is wider among smaller brands.

Vector was created at Anki, which collapsed in 2019. The robot was revived by Digital Dream Labs of Pittsburgh, founded in 2019; Vector 2.0 went on sale in January 2020. In September 2024 the Pennsylvania Attorney General filed a lawsuit against the company over orders and refunds. No later generations have been recorded.