8 Robots Like Madeblock: App Controlled Robots in 2024

iRobot has long been a household name, known for its Roomba series of robotic vacuum cleaners. These robots have revolutionized home cleaning, making it more convenient and efficient. But the world of app-controlled robots extends far beyond just vacuuming. In 2024, a diverse range of robots can be controlled via smartphone apps, catering to various interests, ages, and functions. Let's explore 8 robots like iRobot that are making waves in the world of robotics:

1. Sphero

Sphero, founded in 2010, is a technology company that started with the mission to inspire a love of robotics and programming in people of all ages. Originally known for their robotic ball, Sphero has expanded its product line to include educational robots like the Sphero Bolt and Sphero Mini.

Sphero offers a range of educational and entertainment robots that encourage creativity and learning through play. These robots can be controlled and programmed through the Sphero Edu app. They aim to make robotics and coding accessible to learners of all levels.

Sphero envisions a world where robotics and technology education are engaging and accessible to all, fostering a love for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) from an early age. They believe that hands-on, playful learning can empower individuals to become creators and problem solvers.

Main Robot Type

Educational and Entertainment

Core Function

Sphero offers a range of educational and entertainment robots, such as the Sphero Bolt and Sphero Mini. These robots are designed to teach coding and provide interactive gaming experiences through their apps.

Price Range

$49 to $149

Age Range

Generally suitable for ages 8 and up, but can be enjoyed by all age groups interested in coding and gaming.

Battery Life

Varies by model but typically provides several hours of playtime on a single charge.

2. DJI

DJI, founded in 2006 in China, is primarily known for its pioneering work in the consumer drone industry. They have since expanded their product offerings to include ground-based robots like the DJI RoboMaster S1.

The DJI RoboMaster S1 is an educational robot that combines entertainment with hands-on learning. It can be controlled and programmed through the DJI RoboMaster app, providing a platform for robotics, programming, and AI education.

DJI views robotics and technology as tools for creative expression and educational advancement. They strive to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers by making robotics accessible and enjoyable.

Main Robot Type

Aerial and Ground-based

Core Function

While DJI is renowned for its drones, they also offer ground-based robots like the DJI RoboMaster S1. This educational robot offers a platform for learning about robotics, programming, and AI through its app.

Price Range

$549 to $699

Age Range

Targeted at users aged 14 and above, particularly those interested in robotics and STEM education.

Battery Life

The DJI RoboMaster S1 provides around 35 minutes of continuous use on a full charge.

3. UBTECH Robotics

UBTECH Robotics, founded in 2012, is a global leader in intelligent humanoid robotics. They are committed to using robotics and artificial intelligence to create products that enhance the way people live and learn.

UBTECH is working towards robotics and AI education that empower individuals to realize their potential and become innovative thinkers. They are dedicated to making STEM education engaging and accessible for everyone.

Main Robot Type

Educational and Interactive

Core Function

UBTECH's robots, including the Alpha series and JIMU robots, are designed for educational purposes. They teach coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills through interactive play and app-based programming.

Price Range

$129 to $399

Age Range

Generally suitable for children aged 8 and above, as well as educators and hobbyists interested in robotics.

Battery Life

Battery life varies by model, with most offering several hours of playtime on a single charge.

4. WowWee

WowWee, founded in 1982, is a leading designer, developer, and marketer of innovative consumer entertainment products. They are known for creating interactive and entertaining robotic toys.

WowWee's vision is to create robotic toys that spark imagination and curiosity, fostering a sense of wonder and exploration for users of all ages. They believe that technology can enhance play and education.

Main Robot Type

Interactive and Entertainment

Core Function

WowWee produces interactive robotic toys like Fingerlings, MiP, and Coji. These robots can be controlled and interacted with through dedicated apps, providing entertainment and educational value.

Price Range

$39 to $79

Age Range

Suitable for children and adults interested in interactive and entertaining robots.

Battery Life: Battery life varies by model but typically provides several hours of use.

5. Makeblock

Makeblock, founded in 2012, is a leading provider of STEM education solutions. They focus on creating educational robots and learning platforms that inspire students to become creators and problem solvers.

Main Robot Type

Educational and Programmable

Core Function

Makeblock offers educational robots like mBot and Codey Rocky, designed to teach coding and robotics. Users can program these robots through the app, making them excellent tools for STEM education.

Makeblock aims to enable STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education worldwide. They believe that by providing accessible and engaging robotics tools, they can help students develop critical skills for the future.

Price Range

$49 to $149

Age Range

Suitable for ages 8 and above, particularly students and educators interested in learning about coding and robotics.

Battery Life

Battery life varies by model but generally offers several hours of programming and play.

6. LEGO Mindstorms

LEGO Mindstorms is a product line from the LEGO Group, a Danish toy company with a rich history dating back to 1932. LEGO is known for its iconic building blocks and educational toys. LEGO Mindstorms allows users to build and program their robots using LEGO bricks and the Mindstorms app. It encourages creativity, problem-solving, and STEM learning through hands-on construction and programming.

Main Robot Type

Educational and Creativity

Core Function

LEGO Mindstorms is a comprehensive robotics platform that enables users to design, build, program, and control their own customizable robots using LEGO building blocks and a dedicated app. At its core, the primary function of LEGO Mindstorms is to provide an engaging and educational platform for robotics and STEM learning and an emphasis on coding.

Price Range

$359 to $459

Age Range

Suitable for ages 10 and above, particularly those with an interest in engineering and robotics.

Battery Life

Varies based on usage but typically provides several hours of building and programming fun.

7. Parrot

Parrot, founded in 1994 in France, is a leading drone manufacturer. They have expanded their product range to include ground-based robots like Jumping Sumo and Mambo.

Parrot's goal is to use technology to enhance everyday life and enable users to explore the world in new and exciting ways, whether through drones or ground-based robots.

Main Robot Type

Aerial and Ground-based

Core Function

Parrot is known for its drones, but they also offer ground-based robots like the Jumping Sumo and Mambo. These robots can be controlled through the app, offering entertainment and educational features.

Price Range

$69 to $149

Age Range

Suitable for users aged 14 and above, especially those interested in piloting drones and robotics.

Battery Life

Battery life varies by model, with drones offering around 7-10 minutes of flight time.

8、Ozobot

Ozobot was founded in 2012 with the goal of providing accessible robotics and coding education. They specialize in small, programmable robots that introduce users to basic coding concepts.

Ozobot wants to create a fun and engaging learning environment where individuals of all ages can explore and understand the world of robotics and coding. They aim to make STEM education enjoyable and accessible.

Main Robot Type

Educational and Programmable

Core Function

Ozobot produces small, programmable robots that follow lines and react to color codes. Their apps allow users to program and control these robots while learning about coding and robotics.

Price Range

$49 to $99

Age Range

Suitable for children aged 6 and above, particularly those interested in introductory coding and robotics.

Battery Life

Ozobot robots have rechargeable batteries that offer several hours of play on a single charge.