Past Sightings

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

Hello Everyone,

There are some really great Pleo sites on the web, we would love to hear about any cool Pleo sites you know about!

[PixiePleo]

Has everyone seen the video of Pleo at YouTube? Check it out!!!

<object width="390" height="321"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/E0C55PEcj5E"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/E0C55PEcj5E" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="390" height="321"></embed></object>

[TheoPleo]

Thnx 4 the video Pixie, I ran across a cool blog it is dedicated to Pleo! Check it out: Robots Rule Pleo Blog (http://www.robotsrule.com/pleo/blogger.html)

There is also someone with a Pleo Facebook (http://harvard.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2379438842) you'll have to have a facebook acct to see it though.

[alexgodden]

There's a blog based in the UK too: http://www.pleo-toy.co.uk/

Not much action on any of the blogs recently - hopfully that will change soon!

[toddlevy]

Hi everyone -

I've been working on my site for about two months now but have been holding off on sharing it publicly.

I guess there's no better use for my first post! Here it is...

--> Pleo HQ | http://pleohq.com (http://pleohq.com/?utm_source=pleoworld&adtype=pleoworld) <--

It's basically a mashup that brings together Pleo content from a variety of sources such as links from del.icio.us, a custom feed of news and blog posts, images from flickr,videos from you tube, auctions from ebay, and also has some other basic info like technical specs, an FAQ with open commenting, and so on.

I would greatly appreciate any feedback whatsoever. I still need to update it with some of the latest information found on this site. And I know it's slow... I'm working on it :)

Take care and can't wait to get my Pleo.

TL

[mylife64]

I would greatly appreciate any feedback whatsoever. I still need to update it with some of the latest information found on this site. And I know it's slow... I'm working on it :)


I haven't had a lot of time to check it out in depth, but it looks pretty awesome from what I did see. I love the interactive pleo on the front page that shows all his sensors. Excellent work!

I bookmarked it so I can check it out in further depth ASAP.

:)

[MrsThorsen]

I would greatly appreciate any feedback whatsoever.

Nice site! I especially like the "tricks" video--I hadn't seen that one before. Having all those links is great--I had no idea so many people are into Pleo! Thanks!

[ActivityGrrrl]

I would greatly appreciate any feedback whatsoever.

Excellent site - I've added it to my PLEO favorites folder and I look forward to exploring it regularly. :)

[Pleofan89]

any of you seen this new vid of Pleo? It shows the final version of Pleo at robogames interacting with humans.

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Xd8cPmocrxA"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Xd8cPmocrxA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

[roschler]

Hey all,

If you look below my signature you'll see my pleo blog. Also, here's a video from my trip to Ugobe.:

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0CLOVW2JkZI"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0CLOVW2JkZI" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

I have a bunch of new stuff coming soon. I also have a picture gallery, video gallery, and more in my <a href="http://www.robotsrule.com/">Pleo directory</a>.

[junkroxy]

[QUOTE=Pleofan89;238]any of you seen this new vid of Pleo? It shows the final version of Pleo at robogames interacting with humans.

.......

The latest youtube video of the new Pleo is amazing! Cuteeee!

[Pleofan89]

^^^ there are two newer videos just added onto youtube. they are both the same vid. Its the same as the clip that's played on:

http://www.pleoworld.com/

jeez, all this waiting is killing me. Why October? Why not July? But the amazing part is its going to arrive at my house exactly on my birthday. What a coincidence. lol.

[amjoie]

Hi everyone -

I've been working on my site for about two months now but have been holding off on sharing it publicly.

I guess there's no better use for my first post! Here it is...

--> Pleo HQ | http://pleohq.com (http://pleohq.com/?utm_source=pleoworld&adtype=pleoworld) <--

It's basically a mashup that brings together Pleo content from a variety of sources such as links from del.icio.us, a custom feed of news and blog posts, images from flickr,videos from you tube, auctions from ebay, and also has some other basic info like technical specs, an FAQ with open commenting, and so on.

I would greatly appreciate any feedback whatsoever. I still need to update it with some of the latest information found on this site. And I know it's slow... I'm working on it :)

Take care and can't wait to get my Pleo.

TL

Great site! Very informative. I enjoyed it a lot. :)

small suggestion: I think the first update you should make is the statement about battery life, because someone might be disappointed that it is only one hour when your site said two hours. Something like that would stick in someone's mind.

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

PleoFan89 the waitting is the hardest thing!!!! I guess we will just have to be one another's support group during the wait :rolleyes:

[toddlevy]

small suggestion: I think the first update you should make is the statement about battery life, because someone might be disappointed that it is only one hour when your site said two hours. Something like that would stick in someone's mind.

Done. Thanks for pointing it out.

And thanks too for the positive review of the site.

If you think of anything else, feel free to drop a PM.

TL

[amjoie]

Done. Thanks for pointing it out.

And thanks too for the positive review of the site.

If you think of anything else, feel free to drop a PM.

TL

Thank you for the quick fix.

And you're more than welcome about the review. I love to see comprehensive and easy to navigate websites. :)

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

I have to agree with amjoie, todd your website is fantastic! Great work!

[alibaba]

Another blog post about Pleo - no new video or anything, but lots of very nice comments about Pleo!

http://www.thegreenhead.com/2007/06/pleo-dinosaur-autonomous-robotic-life-form.php

AB

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

Another blog post about Pleo - no new video or anything, but lots of very nice comments about Pleo!

http://www.thegreenhead.com/2007/06/pleo-dinosaur-autonomous-robotic-life-form.php

AB

Oh thank you for sharing Alibaba! I love reading nice comments about Pleo! :)

[toddlevy]

I just noticed someone selling an "I (heart) Pleo" shirt on Amazon...
http://www.amazon.com/o/asin/B000GT1HX4/ref=nosim/dontsaythatoutlo

Not sure if that's a trademarked term or not, but figured you (the mods / UGOBE) might want to know about it.

The worst part is it's a lame design. If you're going to profiteer, the least you could do is have good production values!

TL

[amjoie]

I just noticed someone selling an "I (heart) Pleo" shirt on Amazon...
http://www.amazon.com/o/asin/B000GT1HX4/ref=nosim/dontsaythatoutlo

Not sure if that's a trademarked term or not, but figured you (the mods / UGOBE) might want to know about it.

The worst part is it's a lame design. If you're going to profiteer, the least you could do is have good production values!

TL

Oh my, that was quick. I didn't think that kind of thing would start until October.

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

I just noticed someone selling an "I (heart) Pleo" shirt on Amazon...
http://www.amazon.com/o/asin/B000GT1HX4/ref=nosim/dontsaythatoutlo

Not sure if that's a trademarked term or not, but figured you (the mods / UGOBE) might want to know about it.

The worst part is it's a lame design. If you're going to profiteer, the least you could do is have good production values!

TL

Thank you toddlevy :) for letting us know.

[toddlevy]

Thank you toddlevy :) for letting us know.

Man, now I feel a snitch :)

Might as well go all in and let you know they're also flogging the shirts on this Squidoo lense...

http://www.squidoo.com/pleoreview/

TL

[PleoWorldHostCami]

Thank you again toddlevy, it is greatly appreciated.

[Chiquito]

Man, now I feel a snitch :)

Might as well go all in and let you know they're also flogging the shirts on this Squidoo lense...

http://www.squidoo.com/pleoreview/

TL

I posted the lens on Squidoo - I didn't realize these were illegitimate pieces of merchandise. :confused: I just did a search on Amazon for Pleo things and put those up. If it's not kosher, I'll pull them off. Just let me know.

[toddlevy]

I posted the lens on Squidoo - I didn't realize these were illegitimate pieces of merchandise. :confused: I just did a search on Amazon for Pleo things and put those up. If it's not kosher, I'll pull them off. Just let me know.

Small world, I guess.

Wasn't trying to bust on your lens... FYI. Hope you didn't take it that way!

TL

[Chiquito]

It's okay - I just found those and thought they were kind of cool. Personally, I'd love to see Ugobe release some directly - I'd wear one. :)

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

It's great to see people wanting to show their love for Pleo!

[junkroxy]

i found this link with photos i never seen before...

http://www.botmag.com/articles/02-26-07_Ugobe_Pleo.shtml

[hardyfoster]

excerpt from above article link

But we designed it so that Pleo knows when the leg is moving by an outside force, so he can cry out in pain and then maybe walk with a limp for a while with that leg.

now this is really cool, neat, and interesting !

[hardyfoster]

i remember someone asking about floors and carpets, here is your answer

Pleo will reset thresholds and adjust his idea of what he thinks is normal. Let’s say you get Pleo and you take him home to your shag carpet. When Pleo walks, the carpet will drag on his feet. So his force feedback sensors will realize that he is spending too much energy to walk around. Pleo will try different things to reduce the energy spent. Eventually, he will have the idea to step higher. Your Pleo compared to my Pleo will walk with a higher step.

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

Hey everyone it is great to see you sharing internet sites. I just wanted to remind everyone that Pleo went though a lot of developmental stages, some of the information out on the web is old information. I just want everyone to be aware that some of the information out there may be dated and possibly contain old information that is no longer relevant.

[amjoie]

Hey everyone it is great to see you sharing internet sites. I just wanted to remind everyone that Pleo went though a lot of developmental stages, some of the information out on the web is old information. I just want everyone to be aware that some of the information out there may be dated and possibly contain old information that is no longer relevant.

It would be really nice to know any major changes in Pleo features, especially those that have already been widely discussed. If we don't know what info has changed, and what info is relevant, that makes it hard to harness our thoughts/dreams about what life with Pleo might be like. I sure don't want to be counting on something, and be disappointed. It would be better to know ahead of time, and be thrilled with Pleo when he/she comes.

[toddlevy]

i found this link with photos i never seen before...

http://www.botmag.com/articles/02-26-07_Ugobe_Pleo.shtml

I love those pics!

The magazine's editor was nice enough to give me permission to include them on my Pleo tech specs page...

http://pleohq.com/pleo-101/technical-specs/

I think showing Pleo "under the hood" is a great way to convey just how complex he is. (And perhaps help combat the "why is it so expensive" naysayers I've seen on some tech blogs.)

Also, don't fall in love with the screengrab of the interface in the botmag article. I learned today from Pleo's PR company that the image is no longer accurate.

TL

[PleoWorldHostCami]

It would be really nice to know any major changes in Pleo features, especially those that have already been widely discussed. If we don't know what info has changed, and what info is relevant, that makes it hard to harness our thoughts/dreams about what life with Pleo might be like. I sure don't want to be counting on something, and be disappointed. It would be better to know ahead of time, and be thrilled with Pleo when he/she comes.

Remember, the most recent & official information can be found at Discover Pleo (http://www.pleoworld.com/discover)

[amjoie]

Remember, the most recent & official information can be found at Discover Pleo (http://www.pleoworld.com/discover)

(Whimper) But that's all so general -- I'm hungry for specifics!

OK, I feel better now that I've expressed my inner feelings. I'll be a good girl, and wait patiently. LOL ;)

[alibaba]

I don't know if you've seen this, but if you go to the 'Look Inside' bit of the 'Discover' page (http://www.pleoworld.com/discover/lookinside) it just looks like a picture of Pleo, but if you scroll down there is a list of the different parts (sensors, camera etc) and when you mouseover them they show where they are on his body.

Sorry if that was a terrible description, you just have to try it!

AB

[amjoie]

I don't know if you've seen this, but if you go to the 'Look Inside' bit of the 'Discover' page (http://www.pleoworld.com/discover/lookinside) it just looks like a picture of Pleo, but if you scroll down there is a list of the different parts (sensors, camera etc) and when you mouseover them they show where they are on his body.

Sorry if that was a terrible description, you just have to try it!

AB

Yes, don't you just love that! I was all over the website the day I pre-ordered, "inhaling" everything available.

They did such a good job on the website. It is visually inviting, clear and understandable, it flows well, it is informative, and it is suitably enticing. In short, everything you would need to know before making an informed decision to purchase a Pleo, and plenty of incentive to do so.

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

I love that mouse over of Pleo's insides too Alibaba!! The graphics team did a fantastic job on the site but that is my favorite graphic. I love seeing all the internal mechanisms.

[Starfire]

Hi everyone -

I've been working on my site for about two months now but have been holding off on sharing it publicly.

I guess there's no better use for my first post! Here it is...

--> Pleo HQ | http://pleohq.com (http://pleohq.com/?utm_source=pleoworld&adtype=pleoworld) <--

It's basically a mashup that brings together Pleo content from a variety of sources such as links from del.icio.us, a custom feed of news and blog posts, images from flickr,videos from you tube, auctions from ebay, and also has some other basic info like technical specs, an FAQ with open commenting, and so on.

I would greatly appreciate any feedback whatsoever. I still need to update it with some of the latest information found on this site. And I know it's slow... I'm working on it :)

Take care and can't wait to get my Pleo.


TL

Great site! You've got a couple of videos I haven't seen before. Now I really don't want to wait until Oct for Pleo to arrive!

[Starfire]

(Whimper) But that's all so general -- I'm hungry for specifics!

OK, I feel better now that I've expressed my inner feelings. I'll be a good girl, and wait patiently. LOL ;)

Amjoie - I don't think you can be patient at all. You're like the rest of us sitting at home dreaming up all the things Pleo will do. I'm sure mine will immediately recognize my voice and come when called. Won't your's?:o

[toddlevy]

Great site! You've got a couple of videos I haven't seen before. Now I really don't want to wait until Oct for Pleo to arrive!

Thanks for the props!

My plan is to keep rotating out the featured videos on the Photos & Videos page as I find new goods one. And to sprinkle other topical ones (e.g. tricks (http://pleohq.com/faq/what-tricks-can-pleo-learn/)) throughout the site.

Don't want to be a clearinghouse for all videos so much as a guide to the good stuff.

Again, thanks.
TL

[amjoie]

Amjoie - I don't think you can be patient at all. You're like the rest of us sitting at home dreaming up all the things Pleo will do. I'm sure mine will immediately recognize my voice and come when called. Won't your's?:o

Shhhhh. Don't tell secrets. LOL! ;)

My Pleo is going to do something my cats never did: sit quietly on my lap while I talk on the phone; and all the while she'll make small non-disturbing sounds as I pet her, content just to be loved. Right. :rolleyes: ;)

[jtforums]

Hi everyone -

I've been working on my site for about two months now but have been holding off on sharing it publicly.

I guess there's no better use for my first post! Here it is...

--> Pleo HQ | http://pleohq.com (http://pleohq.com/?utm_source=pleoworld&adtype=pleoworld) <--

It's basically a mashup that brings together Pleo content from a variety of sources such as links from del.icio.us, a custom feed of news and blog posts, images from flickr,videos from you tube, auctions from ebay, and also has some other basic info like technical specs, an FAQ with open commenting, and so on.

I would greatly appreciate any feedback whatsoever. I still need to update it with some of the latest information found on this site. And I know it's slow... I'm working on it :)

Take care and can't wait to get my Pleo.

TL


Nice site. Ugobe should put a link to your site as the official unofficial Pleo site. Lol. :D :D

[toddlevy]

Nice site. Ugobe should put a link to your site as the official unofficial Pleo site. Lol. :D :D

Um, that would be fantastic!

Thanks for the compliment.

TL

[monikabatra]

soory to say this, but pleo have no voice recongnization.

[Pleofan89]

soory to say this, but pleo have no voice recongnization.

I think that was mentioned a few pages back. Either tha or in another thread... :o

[mweed]

It's covered in the Voice, speech, and/or sound recognition (http://forums.pleoworld.com/showthread.php?t=76) thread under the Plea's Features forum.

[pleoguy101]

Hey all,

If you look below my signature you'll see my pleo blog. Also, here's a video from my trip to Ugobe.:

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0CLOVW2JkZI"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0CLOVW2JkZI" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

I have a bunch of new stuff coming soon. I also have a picture gallery, video gallery, and more in my <a href="http://www.robotsrule.com/">Pleo directory</a>.

THIS MY FAVORITE PLEO VIDIO!!!!:D :)

[roschler]

Thanks! :)

[mweed]

I noticed that there is a listing for pleo in Wikipedia. And the specifications there list:

32-bit Atmel ARM 7 microprocessor (main processor for Pleo)
32-bit NXP ARM 7 sub processor (camera system, audio input dedicated processor)WHich is actually more info than Ugobe lists. They just state it's a 32-bit processor...

[coachrachelc]

Do you know when Pleo is launched in other countries outside the US?

[cmadmacs]

I read on ebay in 2008. I don't if that is fact or a sells pitch.

[Pleofan89]

There's a comment here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0C55PEcj5E#XUOoRxiGv2k) with someone saying Pleo is out in a UK place called argos?

I searched that site (http://www.argos.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Search?storeId=10001&catalogId=1500000701&langId=-1&searchTerms=pleo&go.x=0&go.y=0) and think he's wrong.

Anyone care to varify this claim?

[PleoWorldHostCami]

There's a comment here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0C55PEcj5E#XUOoRxiGv2k) with someone saying Pleo is out in a UK place called argos?

I searched that site (http://www.argos.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Search?storeId=10001&catalogId=1500000701&langId=-1&searchTerms=pleo&go.x=0&go.y=0) and think he's wrong.

Anyone care to varify this claim?

The Argos site itself says "Can be reserved for store pick up...."

I'd say you're right in thinking he's wrong. :)

[Pleofan89]

^^Ok thanks for that. I just wanted to make sure. So it was just pure ignorance was it? lol

[cmadmacs]

People need to do their homework before posting information like that. Pleo will not be out until October in the USA.

[Pleofan89]

People need to do their homework before posting information like that. Pleo will not be out until October in the USA.

I know....I already pre-ordered mines when it just came out one pre-order and it will arrive at my house on October 22. Sheesh just because you have more posts than me you think I don't know anything about Pleo? I never posted here for a month and I get a comment like that? Wow, the community sure have gotten cold.

Just wanted to make sure about England...since I don't know about Europe...

you didn't have to post that rude comment, PleoworldhostCami already answered my question...

[PleoWorldHostCami]

I know....I already pre-ordered mines when it just came out one pre-order and it will arrive at my house on October 22. Sheesh just because you have more posts than me you think I don't know anything about Pleo? I never posted here for a month and I get a comment like that? Wow, the community sure have gotten cold.

Just wanted to make sure about England...since I don't know about Europe...

you didn't have to post that rude comment, PleoworldhostCami already answered my question...

Hey Pleofan89,

I think cmadmacs was talking about the person you mentioned in your post not checking their facts, not you. :D

[amjoie]

Wow, the community sure have gotten cold.


Misunderstanding or no misunderstanding, one person does not a community make ....

Last I looked, things were warm as toast around here. (passing a lemonade to Pleofan89 -- and laying a blanket on the sandy beach, with the sun full overhead)

Just sit a spell, and relax. We're all friendly natives. Not a spear or torch in sight. :D ;)

[Pleofan89]

ok, sorry, I must have over reacted. Its so hard to tell what people are saying on the net.

Again, my apologies..

[PleoWorldHostCami]

ok, sorry, I must have over reacted. Its so hard to tell what people are saying on the net.

Again, my apologies..

You are very wise! I know I've misunderstood things online many times. As you say it is very difficult to tell exactly how something is meant with just written words. We don't have the benifit of inflection of tone or seeing a person's facial expressions as they are saying something.

Thank you so much for being so gracious.

[mweed]

From what I've seen on other sites, this set of forums are probably in the top ten for friendliness and camaraderie. Some out there are quite vicious. I'm proud to be considered part of this group. :)

Now, if we're judge knowledge by the number of posts, pass me some lemonade, amjoie, I guess that makes you our reigning expert. ;) But I'll have to pass on the sandy beach. My pleo and I had fun at Bora-Bora, but he doesn't like the sand getting in his gears...

[amjoie]

From what I've seen on other sites, this set of forums are probably in the top ten for friendliness and camaraderie. Some out there are quite vicious. I'm proud to be considered part of this group. :)

Now, if we're judge knowledge by the number of posts, pass me some lemonade, amjoie, I guess that makes you our reigning expert. ;) But I'll have to pass on the sandy beach. My pleo and I had fun at Bora-Bora, but he doesn't like the sand getting in his gears...

My sincere wish and hope is that, as the forum grows between now and October, we are able to include the new members in our camaraderie and maintain the friendliness we all prize.

And to that end, here is your lemonade, mweed -- and a glass to everyone else, as well. A toast to our forum: may it remain the same while rapidly growing, as it has been since its inception to now.

[Gobi]

Here, Here!

[mweed]

Gee! Looks like our little pal has made the big time! Here are Monday's and Tuesday's "Bleeker" comic strips. And I didn't even have to alter them. It appears Jonathan Mahood (the creator of the comic strip) has gotten wind of us!http://meaninguvlife.com/pleo/forums/bleeker20070730.gif
http://meaninguvlife.com/pleo/forums/bleeker20070731.gif

[amjoie]

Gee! Looks like our little pal has made the big time! Here are Monday's and Tuesday's "Bleeker" comic strips. And I didn't even have to alter them. It appears Jonathan Mahood (the creator of the comic strip) has gotten wind of us!

That's fun! Except for poor Bleeker, that is -- threatened to become "extinct" on his own strip. LOL

[primavera]

I just found this on YouTube, and it made my day!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=POVFepuGoic

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/POVFepuGoic"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/POVFepuGoic" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

[mweed]

The Financial Times website (and pleo article listed on the PleoWorld main page) is not accessible to non-"Financial Times" members. Can anyone here access the article and post here so others can read it?

[PleoWorldHostCami]

The Financial Times website (and pleo article listed on the PleoWorld main page) is not accessible to non-"Financial Times" members. Can anyone here access the article and post here so others can read it?

Hi mweed,

Are you talking about "Complex Evolution Of A Playful Beast" at Financial Times as listed on the Pleo News page.

I tried the link from the Pleo News page and it opened the entire article. I tried it a second time and got the same message as you mentioned. Perhaps a temporary glitch?

Let me see what I can find out. I hesitate to have anyone post the entire article here because of copyright laws.

[mweed]

Are you talking about "Complex Evolution Of A Playful Beast" at Financial Times as listed on the Pleo News page.

Yes, that is the article. I tried it again and got the same message. And, no, I don't want to get anyone in trouble for copyright violation, but I would think Ugobe as the focus of the article should have some rights to reprint... :rolleyes:

[toddlevy]

Hey all -

I though you might find this blog post interesting...

http://smart-machines.blogspot.com/2007/08/robot-pet-pleo-marketing.html

It's not only critical of Pleo in general...

I have to admit that the more I see videos of Pleo the more I think it is nothing special. It seems very unresponsive. It reminds me of SONY's AIBO that seemed to ignore your every command and just cycle through a few random behaviors; and we all know what happened to AIBO! And I find their insistence on calling this robot a life-form rather annoying. It is not a life-form no matter how many buzzwords you throw at us. A life-form must be able to reproduce and Pleo can't do that (among many other things.)

... but also of the way it's being marketed...

I think it is nice that they want to share with us more details about the making of Pleo. But I wonder, do we really care at this point? The robot went on sale recently but it is not expected to ship until the fall. There is little excitement about the robot to make learning about its design history worthwhile; I can write my biography today but none will care to read it unless at some point in the future I become famous for something. It just doesn't seem like good type of marketing for UGOBE. I find that Wowwee's marketing strategies such as partnering with McDonalds to sell tiny versions of their robots with happy meals much better.

And how's this for a closer...

I would not be surprised if Pleo was a failure but then again, you never know!

Curious what you all think?

TL

[Primus]

He may have a point. I mean, all we know about Pleo is what they've told us. I think if this is comparable to the Aibo but for $350 I will be extremely impressed. What I'm afraid of is that this will be a slightly souped up i-Cybie and not a slightly downgraded AIBO. It's quite a balancing act.

I have to admit to being quite disappointed with i-Cybie. I'm hoping Pleo has more *substance* but I don't think there will really be a way to find out until Ugobe sends out any evaluation Pleos for unbiased reviews. Assuming they even do this.

As for their marketing strategy, I'm not sure what all you can do with this. You don't want to over-hype it, because chances are supplies will be very limited come Christmas time. Not necessarily because of demand but because of short supply.

I guess we'll just have to wait and see what third parties say about it.

[mweed]

I admit that Pleo doesn't have all the features I had hoped for in an AI pet, but suppose as the blogger said, it's abilities are similar to Aibo's. Pleo is way cuter (my opinion, although the Snoopy version of Aibo was kinda cute), has much smoother movements, appears more realistic, and actually has more capability built into it. So, at the much cheaper price, Pleo is a great deal compared to the Aibo, and at the cheaper price should have greater market penetration, and a greater chance to succeed.

To me, the "life form" hype is more about the LifeOS I assume Ugobe plans to use in future products as well. And as for that, we will have to wait and see. The LifeOS appears to be way beyond anything the i-Cybie has, and more richly featured than Aibo's OS. But as we have nothing concrete to go on, the blogger may be right. The information posted so far tends to indicate it should be quite good.

As for the marketing, I would love to see little Pleo toys & stuff in McDonald's Happy Meals, but I don't think that type of marketing would work as well for Ugobe. Pleo is a more expensive product than most of the Wowwee line, and the primary market isn't the happy meal crowd. And as Primus said, too much promotion too soon could hurt more than help. The fact that they are sold out already tends to indicate that Ugobe's marketing is working so far.

Those who are already interested in Pleo want Ugobe to share the details and history. Those who aren't interested won't care regardless of what's being presented. Those who are unaware can get drawn in just as easily by this type of "marketing" as any other. But this appears to me to be more of an effort to keep a "buzz" going in the industry while Ugobe rushes to get a product out, rather than an attempt to hype or market the product.

[eric]

I got that blog in a google alert awhile back, Im impressed i-Cybie have been mentioned poor pup was forgot about from my point of view.

Ugobe is doing well at promoting ,

Wowwees Robosapien media has alot of the same features OS,sd slot,usb updateable etc but the fan base for the robot is really small they didnt really push the marketing after RS 1 & 2

Also the RS media is being sold in the UK & ireland for about 50euros / 30 stg / 60 usds less than pleo


Since pleo has the Cute factor maybe pleo with differ

A product review is vital, i suggest gizmodo.com or engadget.com

Product review meaning the manuals handed over with the pleo & let the editor figure the dino out!
Including software & programming -base level .

Not sure if we have any famous hackers on the forum yet for hardcore wire & guts review! ................aibopet?
aibohack.com

[Primus]

I agree 100% about engadget or gizmodo. I go there every day and I think they would be a good choice to do reviews.

[amjoie]

Hey all -

I though you might find this blog post interesting...

Curious what you all think?

TL

It looks to me like the blogger was just surface "thinking out loud." Not much research or deep contemplation seems to have gone into this blog. I feel it is probably "much ado about nothing." Only another not very well thought out opinion, in all likelihood ....

The fact is, Pleo pre-orders sold out in record time at Ugobe. They even pushed back the date Pleo would reach other stores by two weeks. That sounds like there was a big increase in the volume of orders from other stores, also. It really looks like Pleo pre-orders are in the "dream" rather than "expected" category. In other words, Pleo is *already* a hit.

And word of mouth testimonials haven't even kicked in, yet -- which is always the best advertising. Also, those lucky few people who have had some hands-on time have been mightily impressed (roschler waxes poetic over the memory of his personal Pleo visit -- and he is no novice when it comes to robots). So something real is happening, here.

The longevity of a product like Pleo is something that can only be guessed. And it won't rest solely on the merit of the product. The timing for the introduction of a new genre is everything. Some great products have been introduced before their time, and failed because of it. The public can be fickle, depending on the economy and dozens of other factors. Even if wildly successful, some products are the equivalent of the music industries "one hit wonders." A company needs a "string of hits" not just one great idea, in order to survive. And when a product genre is successful, copycat manufacturers wait in the wings ever eager to grab a share of the profits. Birthing a new genre is not for the faint of heart!

Something else doesn't ring quite true. The blogger is calling AIBO a failure. But AIBO was around for years. It started out simple and evolved into a very complex little robot. It has serious devotees, who would still be buying AIBO. I don't think you can call that the failure of a product.

But I can see three reasons AIBO isn't still available: 1. too costly for the masses; 2. no real company-wide dedication to the product's vision. 3. company unresponsiveness to the buyer's issues with the product.

Ugobe won't make those first two mistakes. They have priced Pleo as low as possible, and the pre-orders show the price is right. They are solely dedicated to the vision of the product, because they live or die with it.

The way Ugobe approached creating Pleo shows that dedication, and their savvy. Pleo is starting out much more complex than AIBO was, even a few years after introduction (meaning Ugobe was interested in creating something special, instead of merely making a vehicle for amassing quick money).

But Pleo still has room to mature into an even more complex product. And the company has the desire to see Pleo mature, even beyond the scope of its creators. Ugobe is actively encouraging lay programmers to help improve the product. A risky, gutsy, and very clever move. Also, they are talking about the next Ugobe life form, and raising financing for it, so we know they are invested in and actively making plans to be here far into the future. That bodes well.

How Ugobe handles buyer concerns with any Pleo issues still remains to be seen. But early indications are the company has heart and sincerely cares about the buyer base. So I have great hopes for open and responsive help with any future issues. To me, the future looks bright in that area.

As far as marketing, Ugobe is not following traditional marketing techniques. They are, instead, inviting their buyer base into their family room. They want us to know who they are. They want us to be part of the vision. They want us to love Pleo, the way they do.

They have involved us from the beginning, making the whole process of creating Pleo almost transparent. Now they want us to know they are real people with real dreams; and they want us to believe in Pleo, their "dream come true." They want us to feel like he is more than the sum of his parts. Genuine. "Alive" to us like he is "alive" to Ugobe.

The video series introducing the buyer base to the individuals directly responsible for Pleo "coming to life" is a natural outcome of Ugobe's ideals. It makes perfect sense to me, and I love it. I don't think it is designed just to convince people to buy Pleo -- I think it is also saying, "Now that you are committed to owning a Pleo, welcome to the family."

Lastly, why is the blogger irritated by the suggestion of a robotic "life form"? Isn't it obvious that Ugobe has *no* expectation of us suspending all disbelief and considering Pleo a living, breathing biological creature? No, no. Not at all. Ugobe is introducing a new genre of robot. A robot with unparalleled life-like qualities. They are trying for a mimic of life so "real" that we can forget for a while Pleo is actually made of metal, wires, and rubbery stuff. Pleo is a form of robotic life never seen before. Ugobe chooses to call him a "life form" without the word "robotic." That is their privilege, and nothing to get someone's knickers in a twist, it seems to me.

I have high hopes for Pleo, and for Ugobe. It wouldn't surprise me if Pleo is the first of a long line of successes, and the historical introduction of a new robotic genre.

[junkroxy]

I love the new webisode. You can feel and touch real passion in the eyes of the Ugobe Staff ;)
I think it's the better!

[cmadmacs]

I agree. I believe we will all be in for a treat in October.

[eric]

In John Sosoka and the Science of Collaboration

Their is a part in the video where we see pleo with a white ball on the computer screen behide pleo you can see a CAD program running.- running time 1.24


Was that the SDK program?

When Pleo is connected to a computer can he see shapes in front of him or was that ball shape made by Eric.

[amjoie]

Are you talking about the part where Pleo was nosing the mouse on the desk? You could only see the back end of the mouse and it looked sorta rounded. At least I think it was a mouse ....

I don't think the SDK program would have an animation sequence tester. That is probably kinda high-end CAD. So, maybe not, I'm guessing.

[pleoguy101]

I agree, but is pleo coming in the beggining of october, or the end:eek: or the middle:)

[roschler]

I love all the Pleos standing around in the background. It's like a PIxar movie. :)

[Pleofan89]

I agree, but is pleo coming in the beggining of october, or the end:eek: or the middle:)

Everyone's saying November 1st is the date pleo ships but Wal-Mart tells me October 15. Even after I contacted them and told them about hearing November 1st, they still said October 15 is the set date..

:confused:

[mweed]

Well, the way I figger it, It's September 3rd, I ain't got my 30 day notice email for my pre-order, and nobody's posted that they got there's, therefore, my guess is that I'll get the email in the next two weeks, with the pleo scheduled to ship to me in mid-october, two weeks prior to them being shipped to the rest of the world November 1st.

[junkroxy]

Well, the way I figger it, It's September 3rd, I ain't got my 30 day notice email for my pre-order, and nobody's posted that they got there's, therefore, my guess is that I'll get the email in the next two weeks, with the pleo scheduled to ship to me in mid-october, two weeks prior to them being shipped to the rest of the world November 1st.

you're lucky, in italy we don't have any certain date, but i think pleo will arrive here for xmas:p i really really hope!

[mweed]

The guy at the desk grabbed it like a mouse, and in the closeup at the beginning of that interview, you can see the shape and horizontal line that are typical of a MicroSoft mouse.

What I thought was interesting was towards the end when Caleb pulls the battery pack out of the Pleo. It appears to be a 6-pack of AA batteries.

[pleoguy101]

are pleos hand made at the ugobe labs:eek: ?? thats awsome, it sure looks like they are anyways!!

[amjoie]

are pleos hand made at the ugobe labs:eek: ?? thats awsome, it sure looks like they are anyways!!

The prototypes were no doubt made there. But it will take a whole lot more coordination and manpower to put together thousands of little Pleos, than the few people you have seen in webisodes could possibly manage.

Here is what I imagine has to happen:

First, all those small parts have to be made. Paint has to be applied. Skin has to be molded and cut into the right shape. Everything has to be shipped to the manufacturing plant, and stored, until they are put into use. As needed they are moved to the right location in the plant, ready for use during the assembly process.

The plant has to be retrofitted to the exact parts any machines will assemble. Stations have to be designed and built, for the parts only people can assemble, so the people will be safe during the process. Then the plant is ready to mass produce Pleos.

Mass production means people or machines put together one small part, over and over, getting very fast at what they do repeatedly. Then the section of Pleo moves on to the next machine or person who adds or connects their part, repeatedly, on each Pleo in the assembly line. After that, the emerging Pleo goes on to the next station, for the next part of the assembly, and so on. Eventually, the now assembled Pleo reaches the end of the line, and is quickly spot checked for obvious errors.

Sometime during that process, during or after the physical Pleo was completed, the programming had to be added, and checked.

Then, the completed Pleo is placed into shock absorbing packaging material, and boxed along with the written materials and peripherals that come with it. Next, the box is put into shipping containers, which need to be addressed, and put onto pallets. The pallets are put into trucks, trains, jets, or whatever mode of transportation will take them to the delivery personnel who will ultimately be responsible for bringing Pleo to your door.

Do you see that the few people in the webisodes could never make thousands of individual Pleos from start to finish, all by themselves, and get them ready to ship -- all before November 1st? It takes a whole manufacturing plant to do that.

That's why Santa has lots and lots of elves. ;)

The mass produced Pleos may differ slightly from the prototypes. And we have only seen prototypes, so far. But they will be close enough, that you probably wouldn't notice. :)

It's getting exciting isn't it?

[mweed]

I sure hope that the elves understand that Ugobe has a differnt ship date than Santa. I sure don't want to wait until Dec. 25th to get my Pleo! ;)

[cmadmacs]

Remember in websode 2 that the head of engineering had been to China and was going back. I read somewhere on the internet that the largest electronic company in Tiawan was producing the Pleo. Mostly likely will be made in China. Remember in business to make money you have to keep cost down. The company I work for can import raw material from China cheeper than they can make it hear(aluminum extrusion).

[pleoguy101]

Well, the way I figger it, It's September 3rd, I ain't got my 30 day notice email for my pre-order, and nobody's posted that they got there's, therefore, my guess is that I'll get the email in the next two weeks, with the pleo scheduled to ship to me in mid-october, two weeks prior to them being shipped to the rest of the world November 1st.
ugobe did say pleo will be shipping october 15 I believe and I did the 2nd day air shipping option for my pleo so when should he arrive at my door step? and for all the other people who did 2nd day air, can someone from ugobe give us some info, and I know I've been constantly wondering about how are little pleos are coming along

[pleoWhisperer]

ugobe did say pleo will be shipping october 15 I believe and I did the 2nd day air shipping option for my pleo so when should he arrive at my door step? and for all the other people who did 2nd day air, can someone from ugobe give us some info, and I know I've been constantly wondering about how are little pleos are coming along

Well, if they're shipping pleo as a week old camarasaurus, then can't you see it on October 8th, when all those baby Pleos hatch! :p

[pleoguy101]

The prototypes were no doubt made there. But it will take a whole lot more coordination and manpower to put together thousands of little Pleos, than the few people you have seen in webisodes could possibly manage.

Here is what I imagine has to happen:

First, all those small parts have to be made. Paint has to be applied. Skin has to be molded and cut into the right shape. Everything has to be shipped to the manufacturing plant, and stored, until they are put into use. As needed they are moved to the right location in the plant, ready for use during the assembly process.

The plant has to be retrofitted to the exact parts any machines will assemble. Stations have to be designed and built, for the parts only people can assemble, so the people will be safe during the process. Then the plant is ready to mass produce Pleos.

Mass production means people or machines put together one small part, over and over, getting very fast at what they do repeatedly. Then the section of Pleo moves on to the next machine or person who adds or connects their part, repeatedly, on each Pleo in the assembly line. After that, the emerging Pleo goes on to the next station, for the next part of the assembly, and so on. Eventually, the now assembled Pleo reaches the end of the line, and is quickly spot checked for obvious errors.

Sometime during that process, during or after the physical Pleo was completed, the programming had to be added, and checked.

Then, the completed Pleo is placed into shock absorbing packaging material, and boxed along with the written materials and peripherals that come with it. Next, the box is put into shipping containers, which need to be addressed, and put onto pallets. The pallets are put into trucks, trains, jets, or whatever mode of transportation will take them to the delivery personnel who will ultimately be responsible for bringing Pleo to your door.

Do you see that the few people in the webisodes could never make thousands of individual Pleos from start to finish, all by themselves, and get them ready to ship -- all before November 1st? It takes a whole manufacturing plant to do that.

That's why Santa has lots and lots of elves. ;)

The mass produced Pleos may differ slightly from the prototypes. And we have only seen prototypes, so far. But they will be close enough, that you probably wouldn't notice. :)

It's getting exciting isn't it? I know its a lot of work for all those people, but nov1st???? I thought maybe oct 20 at the most but... the wait keeps gettin longer and longer:rolleyes: but if pleos are shipping oct 15, and you chose the 2nd day air shipping option, wouldn't pleo come around oct 17?? its all too confusing, OWW my brain:D!!!

[pleoguy101]

this is the thread to discuss the ugobe webisodes:)

[pleoguy101]

I like the new battery charger, It looks awsome!!, the battery looks really cool too:).

[junkroxy]

Have you noticed these photos? Lucky childs;)

http://www.irobolife.com/pleomeets.aspx

[pleoguy101]

AWWWWWWW!!! thats soo cute:D!! I hope I have a reaction like that when my pleo comes, I'll probably feel like i'm seeing my baby boy for the first time, opening his eyes to the world, I'm so excited:D:)!!!

[mweed]

Have you noticed these photos? Lucky childs;)

http://www.irobolife.com/pleomeets.aspx

Is it just my imagination or does that 5 year old Bilal have a mustache?

[pleoguy101]

uhh.. I didn't see any mustache, but I dont think that was the reason junkroxy showed us these pictures:D GUESS WICH 5yr OLD CHILD HAS THE MUSTACHE:eek::D!! no, I think it was to show the joy of the kids when they first saw pleo, and that will also go gaga over pleo when he comes:)

[amjoie]

Is it just my imagination or does that 5 year old Bilal have a mustache?

Most likely the cultural equivalent of a chocolate milk mustache. :)

[junkroxy]

I never seen this video. and you?

http://it.youtube.com/watch?v=yEZ2ZhK0Kjc&mode=related&search=

[pleoguy101]

I love the new webesode, its awsome!! all those people on the street can meet pleo, I hope I can have that experience, pleeeease:)

[mweed]

It would be nice to know if Pleo was visiting in your area so that you could go by and see. Does Ugobe have a calendar of events?

[junkroxy]

Oh, that scenes with Pleo meets people are very cute!:p

[Pleofan89]

I never seen this video. and you?

http://it.youtube.com/watch?v=yEZ2ZhK0Kjc&mode=related&search=


I have ... I was the one that posted the first comment :D....

[pleoguy101]

I know, I hope Ihope I can meet pleo like that, just walking on the street, greeted by a little pleo growl:)

[pleoguy101]

ya, I was wondering the same thing myself, ugobe you comin to Rhode Island anytime soon:)???

[amjoie]

If they stand in a line at a coffee place like Starbucks, they'll have a built in crowd. Pleo will be a celebrity. People might even forget to order their coffee. :D

[junkroxy]

you're right amjoie! i love the new line of the webisodes and i hope to see more people reactions with a pleo in their hands!

[Pleocol]

I agree with the blog some how a lifeform should reflecs to have more freedom and feel of judgment what is good and what is bad? also some kind of memory recall, where is my leaf? who is my owner? where do i live? where is the kitchen? how many people i see? are they friendly so i should behave happy or theyare mean? i should run away.

I think some in the future will be have more intelligents robots that transmit emotions. That is why I suggest tha the Life OS should do this: lets say evey 100 actios or 1000 actios at 101 o1001 he does something different that will add more realism.

------- Now I think there's lot room for improvent in this version of PLEO.
I will buy one or two in order to make this company profit so they develop a second PLEO more mature, intelligent, and lovable and with more tecno characteristics, such as voice reconigtiom, face reconigtion and so on. But what I really want to see if the element of Surpriese, I useed to have an aibo and it was pretty obvious what he was going to do, so that made bored, . Coz we are humans and we dont like the monotums life, we get bored. In my life i do always diffent thngs every year, like visiting a new place, learning a new language(mostly words hahaha and senteces) or meeting new people, going to diferent disco, or restaurant, buying a differnt thing, reading a book and so. So it would nice to see that in PLEO.

AS I said the product is not perfect from what I can see in the videos, it still monotus but I will buy it, coz i want this industry to fluorish, these years are the building blocks of what will happen in 10 year or 20 years from now---, like the robot rellly runing, or juping, and turning our lights off or on, I dont want to see agressive robots that might kills us, but robots that aregood to people, who knows i have seen military robots and they look scaring!

Robots should mimic life forms for the ones who cannot take care of a real animal. I am one those guys. My close realitves has real dogs but I cant coz dont like to leave him alone in apartment, as far it goes to robots, Ii can leave him alone because
I know it's not life being per se, but surely I will like him or love him as I like my computer, or as i like a special t--shirt , robots can be loved as object that give us a sention of fun, or tender, as the girl say in the video HOW CUTE! but what i really intersted is having NOW what in the futere wiil pretty normal to have--! that is really exinting being ahead of the regular ones, who doesn't care about robotics.

Thanks:D

[mweed]

Ialso some kind of memory recall, where is my leaf? who is my owner? where do i live? where is the kitchen? how many people i see? are they friendly so i should behave happy or theyare mean? i should run away.

Those are some real good questions. What does Pleo learn? Just habits & behavior, or does he learn his environment like the layout of the rooms and where a object was last encountered in the room? :confused:

[mweed]

Maybe Caleb can talk Starbucks into hiring Pleo as a barista :)

[junkroxy]

I like how pleocool wrote here:

<b>Robots should mimic life forms for the ones who cannot take care of a real animal. I am one those guys. My close realitves has real dogs but I cant coz dont like to leave him alone in apartment, as far it goes to robots, Ii can leave him alone because
I know it's not life being per se, but surely I will like him or love him as I like my computer, or as i like a special t--shirt , robots can be loved as object that give us a sention of fun, or tender, as the girl say in the video HOW CUTE! but what i really intersted is having NOW what in the futere wiil pretty normal to have--! that is really exinting being ahead of the regular ones, who doesn't care about robotics. </b>

well, i think pleo can cover all this points, and for the cheapest price is really more better than Aibo. Yes, Pleo doesnt know you or your room or your voice, but it's a good start for a younger company like Ugobe :D

[roschler]

Hey everyone,

Great new video taken by a Sacramento Area Aibo Gathering user member, of a fresh out the box Pleo taking his very first baby steps. I wrote about it and also link to a great picture of Pleo in his open box in this Pleo Dinosaur at SAAG 2007 (http://www.pleodinosaur.com/2007/10/baby-pleo-takes-his-very-first-steps-at.html) blog post.

Here's the video:

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DB8tZLxMx9c"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DB8tZLxMx9c" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

Enjoy! :)

[junkroxy]

wOw:D great find. This is an OLD Pleo with not removable battery... the photo is very detailed, thanks for sharing!;)

[Primus]

I know that this Pleo was newborn but I'm starting to wonder if even an "adult" Pleo can walk. I haven't seen any videos yet of some consistant walking.

[junkroxy]

The Pleo was in his first steps... i've seen the video 3 times! I love the end with Pleo walkin and waggin his tail! :D

[amjoie]

I know that this Pleo was newborn but I'm starting to wonder if even an "adult" Pleo can walk. I haven't seen any videos yet of some consistant walking.

Straight out locomotion is singularly boring on film. ;)

The videos have all been very short. Pleo takes a long time to walk. Look at his "footprint" for the few baby steps he did take. It isn't a long stride. Now figure how much time it will take for him to cover some real ground. He won't be doing that much in just a 30 second segment, of a 2 minute clip.

But if he can go forward, then he can walk. And we saw him go forward in several clips, even the official one where he walks away as he fades out. We also saw him back up.

Please bear in mind that Pleo must *learn* how to do things. It takes time. And he enjoys doing what he learns. So far, probably the reason all you see is newborn Pleos is that the "developed" adult Pleo prototypes have probably all learned to stand on a table with only a couple feet to move, and do a prescribed series of tests. Not exactly fun for people wanting to see what a Pleo can do!

You won't know what Pleo can do until you get one. And what Pleo does for you is not what Pleo will do for me. So your Pleo experience and mine may be dramatically different. It works that way with a litter of puppies, too. A year later, you can't believe the pups going to various homes were all out of the same litter. Depends on the environment and the people who raise them, what they turn out like.

[Primus]

I'd just love to see a video of Pleo walking around a bit. I just realized recently that I don't think I've seen any videos like that yet. If you have seen some like that I'd appreciate it if you could point me in the right direction.

I also don't accept, "You won't know what Pleo can do until you get one.". I understand that Ugobe is creating a *kind* of AI but it can only learn within it's boundaries. It won't be able to learn something that is not part of it's programming.

[amjoie]

... I also don't accept, "You won't know what Pleo can do until you get one.". I understand that Ugobe is creating a *kind* of AI but it can only learn within it's boundaries. It won't be able to learn something that is not part of it's programming.

Ugobe says they don't know what Pleo will learn, because so much depends on his environment. I don't know if this is still true because some things have changed, but in one online interview, Caleb said that it would take years before anyone actually knew what Pleo was capable of doing.

Sounds like very open-ended programming ...

But that wasn't exactly what I meant. Even with AIBOs, and it sounds like their AI was primitive compared to Pleo, different AIBOs developed different personalities and could be told apart by their actions/reactions. My AIBO experience would be different from someone else's experience. So I would say you cannot know what an AIBO or Pleo is like until you get one in your own home and interact with it yourself.

That is true with any AI. Even the very old and very primitive AI in the original PF Magic Dogz and Catz meant every pet was a little different than the next. I was really surprised when I adopted a fully adult Dogz that someone else had spent a lot of time playing with. It was totally different than any of my Dogz -- different enough that it seemed like it was from another game.

I am really looking forward to my Pleo experience, with two different Pleos. I love AI, even with Dogz and Catz. Pleos are going to be much more fun than that!

[pleoguy101]

wOw:D great find. This is an OLD Pleo with not removable battery... the photo is very detailed, thanks for sharing!;)

It doesn't look that old, I thought I saw the battery hole where you take it out too. it also says this video was made in 2007, so it cant be too old

[junkroxy]

for OLD i mean the prototype that you cant take the battery out... this is the same model i saw 2 weeks ago (the 1st prototype on all the youtube's videos, before the delay)...

[Primus]

I thought the battery popped out of that circle on it's stomach. I think this Pleo is about as close to production as we are going to see.

[BauerMECH]

I thought the battery popped out of that circle on it's stomach. I think this Pleo is about as close to production as we are going to see.
Attached Thumbnails

Actually, the 'new' Pleo junkroxy is talking about has a quick-change (easily removable) pack that can be put on an external charger rather than plugging the whole Pleo into the wall. Have three or four packs, and you can run Pleo around the clock (unless his motors get too hot);). The 'old' prototype model still had a removable battery pack, but required the removal of three screws to get to it. You can see one of the screws in the center of the 'button'. The other two are visible after you remove the 'button' and stretch the skin open.

[mweed]

Yes, the hole in the bottom of the new Pleo is rectangular, and there is no covering for the hole when the battery is not in place (i.e., charging). The video Ugobe released three weeks ago shows them removing the battery and you can see the bottom of Pleo's stomach quite clearly.

[pleoguy101]

I thought the battery popped out of that circle on it's stomach. I think this Pleo is about as close to production as we are going to see.thats what I thought it was too:)

[junkroxy]

Actually, the 'new' Pleo junkroxy is talking about has a quick-change (easily removable) pack that can be put on an external charger rather than plugging the whole Pleo into the wall. Have three or four packs, and you can run Pleo around the clock (unless his motors get too hot);). The 'old' prototype model still had a removable battery pack, but required the removal of three screws to get to it. You can see one of the screws in the center of the 'button'. The other two are visible after you remove the 'button' and stretch the skin open.

your answer was very detailed. great!:p

great avatar too!

[pleoguy101]

I love the new webisode 6!! pleo is soooo cute, and funny... AND AWSOME:D!!!!!

[cmadmacs]

Pleo is the dinosaur! Like Caleb said, you can have a dog or cat but you can't have a dinosaur. Now that is changed. Pleo will rule the world and the toy companies that didn't see Caleb's vision will regret it very soon. Remember that the Beatles were turn down. I bet that record label regreted that decision.

[Primus]

How long do you think it we be before we start to see imitation Pleo's and knock off's. I'm sure many toy companies will join the bandwagon once they see the success of Pleo.

[Pleocol]

I loved webisdoe #6. it showed the human side of pleo and how it intercts with us. Also we even seen him walking.

**** I Don't know when will see imitations from china hehehe, but i know chinese can emitate almost everything.

***** Because PLEO walk in low motion, i dont know yet if he can walk from room to room as my roomba does hahaha(no to be compared but i wanted to say it)

***** I really want a pleo as a pet-robot. Not as just a robot. but as a pet. I have been joking with friends, relatives, and I say I will have a dinosour as pet... and they say how come? hahahaha.:D

[Robot Central]

John Sosoka, Ugobe CTO, on whether Pleo will have other family members:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZigbzp88gU

You can read the interview highlights and see other Pleo videos at Robot Central (http://robotcentral.com/?p=143) as well.

[pleoguy101]

cool I watched al the videos!! can you put a sound in pleo, but not over ride another?

[pleoguy101]

I found this video, It really makes you smile at pleos cutness and how awsome pleo is:)!!!!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZL1FReoBTA

[cmadmacs]

Saw that video. Awsome!

[notoriusMAT]

Video is Awesome...I can't wait for us to get out pleos...these posting will be full of proud pleo parents showing them off in the greatest and cutest ways!!!!:D

[Robot Central]

From our conversation with John, it appears that all of Pleo's sounds can be masked - or replaced with another sound. It appears that there is a sound "registry" that associates certain behaviors with certain sounds. These sounds are customizable by the end user through the programming interface. Hence, you could replace the sound Pleo makes when he is sad with a crying baby, or you could replace contentment with singing.

[amjoie]

From our conversation with John, it appears that all of Pleo's sounds can be masked - or replaced with another sound. It appears that there is a sound "registry" that associates certain behaviors with certain sounds. These sounds are customizable by the end user through the programming interface. Hence, you could replace the sound Pleo makes when he is sad with a crying baby, or you could replace contentment with singing.

I'm wondering if it is an "open registry" in the sense that a new sound could be registered so that it could be applied to a new "set" of movements designed by a lay programmer.

[amjoie]

What I really enjoyed is watching the "relationship" between Pleo and John. The distraction level is what I would expect if he were holding a living animal that he was trying to keep content, while he talked to someone about it.

If John knew exactly what Pleo would do, he would not be distracted at all. But because he was unsure how Pleo would react, part of his concentration was on trying to keep Pleo "under control," while John was also trying to explain what he wanted everyone to know. The double dynamic was fun to see.

It reminded me very much of a new parent, proud to show off his toddler, but unsure whether the toddler would behave while he was being showcased. LOL

[cmadmacs]

very, very true amjoie.

[pleoWhisperer]

I'm sure it is. Even Ugobe has promised to provide "new" sounds. The question is, how easy will it be for the lay person to choreograph pleo's movements to match the sounds they are adding.

[kirsten23]

I LOVE that video.... how cute is he when he was upside down and scared.. awwww i just wanted to cuddle him!!!
I can't wait to get mine!!!

[Marzipanlady]

Thanks for sharing, Pleoguy. Pleo does seem to act much like an animal or a small baby. Can't wait to get my own little green camarasaur. Aaaawww!

[junkroxy]

i love all the webisode but my favourite is the #6 too :D

[roschler]

On that note, where's the latest? Shouldn't there be a #7 by now?

[pleoWhisperer]

Number 7 should have been out a week and a half ago. I kinda figured the webcast was supposed to count as webisode #7, but that didn't pan out. We're actually due for number 8 this Friday! Oh, no! You know what this means! Now they're slipping on the webisode ship dates! ;)

[going86]

Number 7 should have been out a week and a half ago. I kinda figured the webcast was supposed to count as webisode #7, but that didn't pan out. We're actually due for number 8 this Friday! Oh, no! You know what this means! Now they're slipping on the webisode ship dates! ;)

lol. i just think that they only made a few webisodes at the beginning and a now filming more to satisfy our needs

[mweed]

I've got a great idea for a webisode! How about a video showing a pleo coming off the assembly line, being boxed, and shipped out to a happy customer! :)

[roschler]

And which person should be that happy customer? Hmmm? Hands please. LOL :D

[cmadmacs]

Me! Me! Me! Yes Me!

[pleoWhisperer]

Anybody who receives a Pleo in the mail will be a "happy customer"!

[junkroxy]

New Maker Faire Video from Boing Boing! Cute!;)

http://tv.boingboing.net/2007/11/01/maker-faire-marks-re.html

[Pleona]

I was looking at PreOrdering sites here in the UK out of interest, and one of the quotes about Pleo, which with me not being completely researched, found adorable!
Pleo is capable of expression. He can feel joy and sorrow, anger and annoyance. When Pleo is tired, he will become drowsy and go to sleep, even dream. Two or more Pleos will recognize one another. Be careful though. They can transmit colds to each other.

The part about colds, I just found adorable! ^^ Makes me want to make my parents preorder me one even more! :)

[amjoie]

New Maker Faire Video from Boing Boing! Cute!;)

http://tv.boingboing.net/2007/11/01/maker-faire-marks-re.html

I love it when Pleo balanced on two feet. So cute!

[ryane]

yeah, that was pretty cute!

[BauerMECH]

Pleo shipping update made mention on Robots-Dreams (http://www.robots-dreams.com/2007/11/pleos-finally-t.html)

[cmadmacs]

Thanks for sharing that.

[Bectile]

I was googling "Pleo" and found this page:
http://crunchgear.com/2007/10/25/pleo-as-a-lamb/

I was wondering if he overheated. Pretty cute, I wish there was a video to go with the photo. ;)

Rebecca

[Pleofan89]

Wow, that solves the whole Skin fading issue... lol...

Yes, I want to see a vid of it too! Looks pretty cute.

[amjoie]

I was googling "Pleo" and found this page:
http://crunchgear.com/2007/10/25/pleo-as-a-lamb/

I was wondering if he overheated. Pretty cute, I wish there was a video to go with the photo. ;)

Rebecca

I wonder if that is how they found out, for sure, that putting a "blanket" over Pleo would overheat him.

[Primus]

that'd be a long neck and tail for a lamb :p

[gumbowumbo]

That fuzzy guy was at Maker Faire. One of the wives of someone working on Pleo made a furry skin for him (we asked all about him). Touch sensors didn't work so great, but he looked cute like a fuzzy armadillo or possum. :o

[pleoguy101]

well he knows his surroundings, he can tell if somthing has changed if he walks around and everything is different, the ONLY thing I'm worried about pleo is his gears, I just hopr.. pray that they are not too loud, I have read that they were extramely quiet, junkroxy, when you met pleo, how were his gears, were they loud, soft, could you hear them at all??:confused:

[Pleona]

Small paragraph about Pleo from the Uk's 'The Gadget Show'. Lucky fella who wrote this got to have a play with one of the Babies, and I squealed the whole way through that part of the show. <3
But for me, the robot to pre-order pronto is Pleo from Ugobe, the guys behind Furby. The easiest way to describe the charm of this newly hatched Camarasaurus is that he's got a lot of the functionality of the current crop of cutting edge Japanese bots - a very natural walking motion, object recognition and vocal personality - with a serious does of the cuddle factor. Trust me, if the most important peeps in your life are 3+, you just gotta get on that waiting list.

From here-http://gadgetshow.five.tv/jsp/5gsmain.jsp?lnk=601&featureid=437

ALSO, Three little pictures from the Show of Pleo. :)
http://gadgetshow.five.tv/jsp/5gsmain.jsp?lnk=401&section=Consumer&show=s7e1&featureid=457&description=Focus%20Group

[pleoguy101]

I will be a very happy customer!! I'll probably through flowers to the mail man and a check for $1000 dollars, LOL:D I'll be a very happy customer, and he'll be a very happy mail man:D

[amjoie]

I will be a very happy customer!! I'll probably through flowers to the mail man and a check for $1000 dollars, LOL:D I'll be a very happy customer, and he'll be a very happy mail man:D

For a $1000.00 check "tip", Ugobe might deliver your Pleo "in person." LOL ;)

[pleoguy101]

ROTFLOL:D if anyone wants to meet caleb chung or any other ugobe member, tell them that your giving $1000 to whoever delivers your pleo:):D

[cmadmacs]

Hey I will deliver your pleo.

[pleoguy101]

LOL:) ok, and an extra $200 if you bring pleo a week early LOL:D

[pleoWhisperer]

for $1200 bucks you could fly to Ugobe and pick it up in person. ;)

[amjoie]

for $1200 bucks you could fly to Ugobe and pick it up in person. ;)

... and maybe meet *everyone*! LOL

[Starfire]

My passports current - you convince them to let us pick them up at the factory and I'll be on my way.

[mweed]

I'll have to brush up on my Chinese. That may take longer than the thirty days! ;)

[Primus]

What really boggles my mind is that UGOBE hasn't sent a pleo yet to sites like engadget or gizmodo. If Pleo is really as close to shipping as is currently being speculated you would think that our favorite dino would have made it out to some sites for review to help drum up interest.

Unless for some reason UGOBE isn't looking to drum up interest....

[pleoguy101]

well pleos in many articles... just go to ugobe .com and theres a whole list of articles that talk about the little dino:Dhttp://www.ugobe.com/

[Marzipanlady]

In a recent issue of Time magazine listing the top inventions of the year Pleo wasn't even mentioned. This is very surprising considering that some of the inventions there didn't seem nearly as interesting!

Wonder why Pleo was omitted? :confused:

[BauerMECH]

What really boggles my mind is that UGOBE hasn't sent a pleo yet to sites like engadget or gizmodo. If Pleo is really as close to shipping as is currently being speculated you would think that our favorite dino would have made it out to some sites for review to help drum up interest.

It does seem very odd to wait until the last minute to spill all the beans. Frankly, I don't get it either. I suppose this is one of the draw-backs to playing the anticipation card... waiting too long can stir up some unwanted unrest with consumers. Just remember, we don't know all of what's going on in the background. There could be a good reason for such a build up.
I wouldn't worry. There are those of us out there in motion - we just aren't supposed to talk about it... yet. ;)

[DinoFun]

I think Ugobe's marketing has been right-on so far, I like how they have involved the public in posting updates, videos, etc on Pleo's development and progress. I believe that this company really has its heart and soul into this project and is most concerned with the quality of Pleo and customer satisfaction. And to be honest, I think limiting the number of Pleos available to the public will help Ugobe in the long run due to the old rules of Economics 101 supply and demand......years ago the Harley Davidson Company used to have up to a year and a half waiting list just to purchase a motorcycle, this made their customers really appreciate their motorcycles more and also kept the value of used motorcycles up, but now Harley's are a dime and dozen since the company increased production and the value of used bikes really fell.

The only thing I would hope Ugobe could program Pleo to do in the future would be to recognize the owner's voice and come when called.


:)

[Primus]

well pleos in many articles... just go to ugobe .com and theres a whole list of articles that talk about the little dino:Dhttp://www.ugobe.com/

Well, those are controlled experiences. What I'm talking about is when a new camera, digital music player, cellphone, etc. comes out they mail them to the press for review before the general public gets a hold of them. Mostly they do this to drum up publicity. It's similar to how movies have limited previews for the critics.

Sites like engadget and gizmodo go crazy for this kind of stuff. Heck, even just the unboxing of something requires a gallery of tons of pictures.

Seems like it would be a smart thing to do.

[MyCool]

For what it's worth, Pleo was shown with a picture and description in the Christmas Gifts section of Playboy magazine.

[MyCool]

How many Pleos will be hatched with the first release?

[ryane]

How many Pleos will be hatched with the first release?

nobody has said yet. i've asked the same qustion before.

[cmadmacs]

It would be cool to know that information.

[cmadmacs]

Remember that Ugobe has been changing some thing about pleos make up. The battery for one thing. Like it was said we don't know what's going on in the background.

[pleoguy101]

I'm guessing... A LOT:D maybe tousands, or millions!! Just think if you could buy all the pleos, you could have a pleo army!!! You could win the war in iraq!!:D!!! pleos attacking from the sky, some pleos tugging on the terrorists, pleo heards charging from all different directions!! hey mweed, could you make a bob the pleo comic of this scene:D??!!

[cmadmacs]

please! please!

[Pleona]

HAHAH, That would be great!
Caleb getting chased by a Mini-Army of Pleos or something like that. LOL.

[cmadmacs]

mweed do it please do it. I love your art work.

[mweed]

Well, the "Bob the Pleo" strips are already planned out for the rest of the year (which really is only a few more weeks when you stop and think about it) . . . But, I do have something similar planned for mid-December! So stay tuned . . . :D

[Pleona]

Oh that's great! Can't wait! ^^
Random thought...
Army of Pleos: DADDY!
Caleb: -runs-

[MissKirin]

The Financial Times website (and pleo article listed on the PleoWorld main page) is not accessible to non-"Financial Times" members. Can anyone here access the article and post here so others can read it?


I found this... is it the one???

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/1/9a9d0558-2efe-11dc-b9b7-0000779fd2ac.html

[pleoguy101]

when pleo balanced in the video, I thought I heard him let out a little cry that souded like "tah da!!":D:) did you hear that:)???

[kchamster]

I wonder if that is how they found out, for sure, that putting a "blanket" over Pleo would overheat him.

haha so true!! I was almost wondering the same thing! :eek:

[mweed]

haha so true!! I was almost wondering the same thing! :eek:

They claimed it didn't overheat. :p

[kchamster]

oooooo..........

[roschler]

[UPDATE!] - Pleo has been bumped to Friday by Good Morning America due to a breaking news announcement. Keep in mind, the Friday date is still at "to be determined" status so it could change. I'll update you all if it does. Poor Pleo, all dressed up in the dressing room and now he has to wait!

Hey all,

Rev up those Tivo's and VCR's, Pleo is going to be on Good Morning America tomorrow, November 29, 2007. Check your local TV listings for show times. If anybody records it please send me a copy for my web site (http://www.robotsrule.com/)! :D

http://www.pleodinosaur.com/uploaded_images/pleo-smile-761508.jpg (http://www.robotsrule.com/pleo/2007/11/pleo-on-good-morning-america.html)

[kianajade]

Thats awesome. Do you know what channel it is for Dish?

[cmadmacs]

that would be your local abc channel.

[kianajade]

i dont know if i have that! grrr. Any chance on channel number?

[PleoWorldHostCami]

i dont know if i have that! grrr. Any chance on channel number?

If you have a dish then you have to subscribe to the "local" channels which would include the major networks such as ABC. This is usually a seperate charge above whatever package you have.

These local channels have different numbers for each area. For me they are the same numbers as they would be if I used rabbit ears.

[kianajade]

haha. thank you :D

[PleoWorldHostCami]

Hey all,

Rev up those Tivo's and VCR's, Pleo is going to be on Good Morning America tomorrow, November 29, 2007. Check your local TV listings for show times. If anybody records it please send me a copy for my web site (http://www.robotsrule.com/)! :D


Hi Everyone,

UGOBE just received last minute word that Pleo has been bumped from "Good Morning America" tomorrow. They are still interested in having Pleo on the show, maybe even as early as Friday.

[kianajade]

I hopefully can have a relative or friend tape it! Cant wait!

[roschler]

Hi Everyone,

UGOBE just received last minute word that Pleo has been bumped from "Good Morning America" tomorrow. They are still interested in having Pleo on the show, maybe even as early as Friday.

Yes. I just updated my blog and the post at the top of this thread. I also heard that Pleo got upset and ate all the brownies in GMA's waiting room for the guest stars. Good for you Pleo! (Hey mweed, I smell a cartoon strip here!) :)

[kchamster]

ughhhhhh!!! why did they bump it?!?!?

[roschler]

kchamster,

There's a big breaking news announcement apparently, don't know what it is yet though.

[kchamster]

okay thanks roschler

[kianajade]

breaking news about pleo?!

[roschler]

kianajade,

Nope. Regular news, topic unknown at this time.

[kianajade]

Thank you :D :D

[pleoguy101]

on friday? what time?:confused: I WANNA WATCH IT:D:)!!!

[Marzipanlady]

According to Amazon, I should be receiving my baby dino just before Christmas. Hope so!

Has anyone here recorded today's GMA? I would love to see it but didn't record it. :(

Thanks!

Marzipanlady

[gallamine]

Did anyone get a chance to see it?

[kynan]

Pleo wasn't on GMA today...Maybe tommorrow the big release day!

[Eeyorefan]

Pleo wasn't on GMA today...Maybe tommorrow the big release day!

Tomorrow's Saturday. GMA isn't on then, darn it. :(

[pleoman]

Hey everyone,

I reckon that it'll be put on youtube soon anyway so keep checking!

[junkroxy]

in the meantime i found a new video from japanese preview! cute!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9t0-Xv3B-0

[junkroxy]

Hi guys i found another cute video on youtube featuring Pleo preview in Japan!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9t0-Xv3B-0

[pleoguy101]

AWWW!!! I cant wait for my little pleo!!! hes coming soooo soon, but yet so far LOL:D:)

[kchamster]

BUT THEY SCOOTED HIM BACK!!! we didnt get to see him egzamine the ledge!!! (i spelled that wrong)

[cmadmacs]

maybe that will be one of the upgrades and this pleo didn't have that feature programed yet. I don't know.

[cmadmacs]

As they give us upgrades thing will improve on the pleo. we just have to be patient.

[cmadmacs]

mweed is right.

[kchamster]

*sigh* *kchamster "tries" to be patient*

[junkroxy]

BUT THEY SCOOTED HIM BACK!!! we didnt get to see him egzamine the ledge!!! (i spelled that wrong)

I think it's the hand of a common customer (who doesn't know the features of pleo)! that pleo is the same you'll receive soon!:p he can recognize the edge, don't worry!:D

[mweed]

Now if they'd make it with a zipper on the bottom to use as a snow suit for taking your pleo out in the freezing cold . . . :)

[kianajade]

Does anybody know the dimensions of pleo? Was hoping to make him some winter jackets/hats est.
Heres a baby blanky (quilt) I made him today, and a matching pillow :D

<a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i2.tinypic.com/8aut8c8.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>

[kianajade]

Since my last link didnt work, heres a diff. one. Hopefully this one does..
Tell me what you think :D

http://i18.tinypic.com/86eb1ty.jpg

P.S. as I mentioned before... does anybody know pleo's dimensions?

[kchamster]

THAT'S COOL!!! u made it??!?!?! :D

[cmadmacs]

that could be it. i didn't think of that.

[PleoWorldHostSauri]

Does anybody know the dimensions of pleo? Was hoping to make him some winter jackets/hats est.
Heres a baby blanky (quilt) I made him today, and a matching pillow :D



kianajade,

These are the dimensions we know, I don't have things like the diameter of his tummy or leg length.

Pleo’s dimensions are: 20.7” long, 6” wide and 7.5” tall. He weighs 3.5 lbs. His size when he is sleeping or walking will vary depending on his exact positioning and individual movements.

[DinoFun]

Very cute!

[kianajade]

yeah. I do a LOT of quilting and sewing.

[DinoFun]

Enjoy!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9t0-Xv3B-0


He is so adorable!!

:p

[Pleosaurus]

It moves more now!
It looks so cute when it gts pushed and cries.

[Pleosaurus]

I think he's 8 inches tall roughly.

[Marzipanlady]

Sooo sweet! Love the Pleo nose to camera P.O.V. too

[cmadmacs]

the quilt and pillow are very nice.

[junkroxy]

i posted this video before on the internet section :D

[pleoman]

Enjoy!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9t0-Xv3B-0


He is so adorable!!

:p

I've gotta admit pleo seems to be getting cuter everytime i see him!

I bet all of you guys in the United States who have ordered first hatch and production Pleos must be very excited because he must be coming to your house pretty soon! You are so lucky!

I'm in the United Kingdom but i'm still holding up hopes of getting him just before christmas from findmeagift.com!

I wish i lived in the United States and had ordered a first hatch pleo he'd probably be in my house by the end of next week!

I suppose 'good things come to those who wait'! Remember to keep me updated via the pleoworld forums when you guys finally get your pleos!

Have fun!

Pleoman :)

[kianajade]

thank you :D

[kynan]

Anyone else knowtice Pleos with different coloured eyes??? I've seen blue, green, & yellow eyes on Pleos.
I am wondering if the yellow & green are just unique to those Pleos or are we going to have a suprise when our Pleos first awake?

[kianajade]

I think that all pleos will have baby blue eyes... but im not a 100% sure..
i think they were just on demos ?

[kynan]

Ahhh the great and wonderous mysteries of Pleo & Ugobe. So exciting!

[pleoman]

Anyone else knowtice Pleos with different coloured eyes??? I've seen blue, green, & yellow eyes on Pleos.
I am wondering if the yellow & green are just unique to those Pleos or are we going to have a suprise when our Pleos first awake?

From what i have heard on these forums is that all pleos will have blue eyes even first hatch pleos.

[kianajade]

I want a yellow eyed pleo :D

[kchamster]

haha thatd be cool!

[ciarrasmom]

<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DB8tZLxMx9c&rel=1&border=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DB8tZLxMx9c&rel=1&border=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DB8tZLxMx9c

this may have already been posted, but I hadnt seen it yet. Its the first sort of...ok, I admit it, emotional attachment I have had to Pleo. I almost wanted to yell at first.."you're hurting him!". But it wasnt long before they were loving him up. I cant wait to get mine, hopefully Tuesday. I plan to take it to my daugh