A low-priced simple machine of programming learning "Root" appeared with a small rumba

IRobot Japan will release Root rt0, a robot for programming learning that specializes in simple functions, on July 8th. The price is 24,800 yen. It will be sold at the iRobot official online store and iRobot Education authorized distributors. It can be purchased not only by educational institutions but also by individuals.

Root, which is based on the robot vacuum cleaner Roomba, is a programming robot that can be used for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education that the company is focusing on. By programming with a free dedicated app, you can run, light up, draw, and play sounds, and about four months after its release in February, it has been introduced in elementary schools in 34 prefectures.

While there were voices from teachers in the field such as "programming has become familiar", the price of 29,800 yen for the first model "Root rt1" was "difficult to budget" " It is said that there is a high hurdle to introduce one Root for each student."

Therefore, we have added a model that specializes in simple functions to the Root lineup by omitting some functions. The new Root rt0 is 5,000 yen lower than before by omitting the top board whiteboard, eraser, color sensor, step sensor, and magnet installed in the conventional Root rt1 and simplifying the functions. Teachers can now use Root rt1 to demonstrate on a whiteboard, while students can learn using Root rt0.

The programming language used is Swift, which is developed by Apple and used in iOS. You can choose a learning method that matches your level, from simple methods such as connecting blocks to full-fledged coding commands/syntax typing.

In addition, when executing the contents programmed in rt1 in rt, commands using functions not installed in rt0 are automatically skipped, so it is said that there is no need to rewrite according to rt0.

The main body size is 13.4 x 14.9 x 4.5 cm (width x depth x height), and the weight is about 0.49 kg. The maximum operating time is 5 hours, and the battery charging time is 3 hours.

Accessories include a USB charging cable, foldable whiteboard, decoration stickers, one whiteboard marker, and a wiping cloth.

Common accessories for rt1 and rt0 are also on sale. "Root Brick Top", where you can enjoy decorating Root by attaching a block toy to the board, is 1,980 yen, and "Replacement Parts Kit" is 3,480 yen. Both will be released on July 8th. The "Root Carry Bag", which can hold the Root main unit and accessories together, is scheduled to be released after this summer for 6,980 yen.

IRobot Japan will continue to expand its business to more elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, universities, and programming schools. In addition, it was decided to adopt Root for programming classes at the hands-on English learning facility “Tokyo Global Gateway” operated under the guidance of the Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education. A curriculum for learning programming in English is being developed for classes to start in the fall.