Robovie-PC Packs Intel's Atom Processor

Forget netbooks or nettops based on Intel's Atom CPU. Why not use the chip to power something way cooler than an mini-notebook? Plastic Pals today reports (via Engadget) that Vstone and ATR have unveiled the Robovie-PC, a 39cm (15-inch) tall, 2.2kg (4.8 lbs) robot packing a 1.6 GHz Atom Z530.

Given that the Robovie-PC is actually a computer – complete with VGA, WiFi, 2 x USB and a 1.3mp webcam  – custom programming of the cute little creature is made a helluva lot easier. Unfortunately, this is the perfect example of "convenience is never cheap." He might only be harnessing the power of your average, run of the mill netbook, but it's 399,000 JPY, which amounts to roughly $4,500.

Check out the video of Robovie in action.

Jane McEntegart
Contributor

Jane McEntegart is a writer, editor, and marketing communications professional with 17 years of experience in the technology industry. She has written about a wide range of technology topics, including smartphones, tablets, and game consoles. Her articles have been published in Tom's Guide, Tom's Hardware, MobileSyrup, and Edge Up.