The Vector Robot image : Anki

The newest update for Anki’s Vector home robot, Amazon Alexa integration is coming on the 17th of December to enable customers interact with Alexa directly from the robot and get it to perform tasks like allowing users hear the news, control smart home devices, ask questions and more.

Alexa on the Vector will be triggered by the “Alexa” voice command with access to the virtual assistant’s full range of capabilities available on the cloud-connected home robot. Users can manage their schedule, create lists, access thousands of skills and more on the Vector which counts as just another perk for them.

“We’re thrilled to be working with Amazon to incorporate Alexa into an interactive mobile robot like Vector. But function and capability alone won’t win over people in welcoming robots into their lives. We believe emotional intelligence will be a main driver for mass adoption and essential for the next generation of intelligence and functionality in the home.” Anki CEO Baris Sofman said in a press release at the time of Vector’s launch this October.

“Vector is the beginning of a journey for us to bring affordable, character-rich robots that feel alive into homes around the world,” Sofman said. “As we build out more capabilities for Vector next year, we’re looking forward to an even deeper collaboration with Amazon at this unique intersection of character and utility,”

image : Anki

The Vector robot from San Francisco based Anki goes for $250 and is available in U.S., U.K., Canada and Australia.