Unboxing Dash and Dot
The Arrival: Unboxing Dash and Dot
The day finally arrived—the long-awaited package containing Dash and Dot was at my doorstep. As an early-bird supporter of their crowdfunding campaign, my anticipation had reached a fever pitch. The cardboard box bore the unmistakable logo of these pint-sized robots, promising adventure and learning within.
With trembling hands, I sliced through the tape and lifted the lid. There they were: Dash, the blue explorer, and Dot, the quirky orange companion. Their compact forms nestled in protective foam, waiting to be awakened. I couldn’t help but smile; these little bots were about to embark on a journey of discovery with me.
Dash: The Adventurous Explorer
1. Sleek Design and Durability
Dash’s design was sleek and futuristic. His rounded edges and glossy finish exuded playfulness. But don’t let the cuteness fool you—Dash was built to withstand the rigors of young hands and countless expeditions across living room floors.
2. Programmable Moves
Dash’s real magic lay in his programmability. Using the accompanying app, I could choreograph intricate dance routines, make him zigzag, or even perform a moonwalk (yes, Dash could moonwalk!). The drag-and-drop interface made coding accessible, even for beginners.
3. Obstacle Detection and Avoidance
Dash’s sensors were like tiny eyes, scanning the environment. When he encountered an obstacle—a stray sock, a LEGO tower, or my cat’s tail—he gracefully swerved, avoiding collisions. It was like watching a tiny robot ballet.
4. Voice Commands
“Hey, Dash!” I called out. His LED eyes blinked, and he listened attentively. I could instruct him to move forward, spin, or even serenade me with a synthesized tune. Dash was my obedient companion, always ready to follow my voice.
Dot: The Whimsical Sidekick
1. Personality Plus
Dot was the wildcard—the mischievous sibling to Dash’s earnestness. With her round shape and expressive LED display, she seemed to have emotions. When I tapped her, she giggled or frowned, depending on her mood. Dot was more than a robot; she was a friend.
2. Creative Play
Dot’s accessories were interchangeable magnets. I adorned her with bunny ears, pirate hats, and even a tiny top hat. She became a storyteller, narrating adventures in her endearing robotic voice. “Once upon a time,” she’d begin, and my imagination soared.
3. Light Show and Music
Dot’s LEDs pulsed in sync with music. I played a lively tune, and she transformed into a mini disco ball, casting colorful patterns on the walls. Her rhythmic light show turned my room into a dance floor, and I couldn’t help but join in.
4. Blockly Coding
Dot wasn’t just for play; she was an educational powerhouse. With Blockly, I introduced her to loops, conditionals, and variables. Dot followed my code, blinking and beeping as she executed commands. It was like teaching a tiny electronic wizard.
Conclusion: A Robotic Duo of Wonder
As I sat cross-legged on the floor, Dash and Dot whirring around me, I marveled at their versatility. They weren’t just toys; they were catalysts for creativity, problem-solving, and laughter. Whether exploring circuits, composing tunes, or inventing stories, these mini robots had become my companions in curiosity.
So, if you ever find yourself unboxing Dash and Dot, prepare for a delightful blend of technology and whimsy. They’ll dance, learn, and maybe even moonwalk their way into your heart. 🤖❤️. As a crowdfunder, logistically the process took a far longer time than expected. Next in my arrival list are my ANKI Vector, my Nao Robot, and my Buddy the Robot.