Just seven months after launch, Amazon seems to have decided to discontinue its Astro for Business device. Reportedly, Amazon will bring Astro, which is a security robot for small- and medium-sized businesses, into home-robot range.
As reported by TechCrunch, in an email sent to customers and employees on Wednesday, the reason for putting Astro for Business on the shelf is simple. The mail explained that Amazon wants to focus on its home version of Astro.
Astro was initially launched in 2021. The Astro home version offers home security, pet detection, message delivery, a cargo bin capable of carrying up to 4.4 pounds, and more.
Amazon discontinues Astro
According to an official mail, Amazon mentioned that Astro for Business robots will no longer function. This change will be starting from September 25. The company further suggests that customers should recycle the security robots through Amazon’s recycling program. This initiative can eventually help to cover the shipping cost.
“We are fully committed to our vision of bringing world-class consumer robotics solutions to the home,” an Amazon spokesperson said in a prepared statement. Amazon further claimed that to accelerate their progress and ongoing research to make Astro the best in-home robot, they’ve made the decision to shut down support for Astro for Business. “We’re excited about the in-home experiences we’re inventing for Astro, and look forward to sharing more in the future,” the Amazon spokesperson explained further.
Although Amazon seems to have not specified how many business customers were impacted by this discontinuation. The mail also explained that it is clear that there were not enough customers for Amazon to continue investing in the devices.
What’s next
According to sources, Amazon seems to aim to bring world-class consumer robotics solutions to households and is excited about the in-home experiences they’re developing for Astro.
The business version was designed for spaces up to 5,000 square feet and targets retailers, manufacturers, and other industries. Initially, the business version was priced at $2,350. The business version also came with three subscription plans: “Astro Secure,” Ring alarms and motion detectors, and human agent support and monitoring.
Furthermore, effective immediately, companies are expected to be no longer charged with the “Astro Secure” subscription fee. In addition to this the affected customers will receive a $300 credit to support a replacement solution for their workplace, the TechCrunch concluded.
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