PUBLISHER: Guidehouse Insights | PRODUCT CODE: 1084047
PUBLISHER: Guidehouse Insights | PRODUCT CODE: 1084047
Despite optimistic forecasts about home robots and product launches from prestigious high-tech companies and start-ups, the market for robots in the home has had limited success. The most successful application for home robots has been the robotic floor sweeper. Related products, like robotic lawn mowers and robotic pool cleaners, have delivered only modest revenue at this point. Robotic toys have had limited lifespans before being withdrawn from the market and few humanoid robot form factors have made it past the demonstration phase.
However, with the success of at least one home robot application and the growth of others, hope is high for more applications in the future. The technology embedded in robotic vacuums enables other home robot categories. In addition to home maintenance, some robots are useful for consumers who need help carrying items, for food preparation, and for home healthcare. Some social robots offer physical responses that complement verbal interactions and can be customized for specific customer segments like children, the elderly, and individuals with special needs. A new and interesting category is robots designed to enhance smart home functionality by bringing a voice-activated speaker closer to the user, offering a moveable security camera, and providing social engagement options.
This Guidehouse Insights report explores the status of the myriad applications for robots in the home, examines the implications for the adoption of home robot applications, and looks at factors that will likely affect smart home adoption.