After less than eight months, Amazon has decided to discontinue its Astro security robot for businesses. Despite being fully committed to its home robotics division, the company has pulled the plug on the higher-end model that also served as a security guard for spaces up to 5,000 square feet. This decision comes as a surprise considering it was launched in November 2023, with a price tag of $2,350.
The Astro for Business robot boasted features such as an HD periscope and offered various subscription types and tiers, including Ring Protect Pro, Astro Security, and Virtual Security Guard memberships. However, despite these offerings, the business version failed to gain long-term traction in the market.
Amazon has stated that no employees have been laid off due to the discontinuation of Astro for Business, and the company plans to focus its resources on its home robotics division. The consumer version of Astro, launched in 2021, is still available to purchase through invite-only for $1,600. While not a full-fledged security guard replacement, it can patrol homes and alert users to unfamiliar individuals or suspicious sounds. It can also perform other tasks such as playing music, delivering messages, and setting timers. Panos Panay heads Amazon’s Devices & Services division, which includes consumer robotics.
