Video Showing Off Auto-Converting Programmable Optimus Prime Transforming Skills
Friday, April 9th, 2021 6:02PM CDT
Categories: Toy News, Event News, CollectablesPosted by: ZeroWolf Views: 62,373
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The toy is amongst the highest in the murky depths of the officially licensed third party area, along with ThreeZero's output, and Flame Toys Kuro Kara Kuri line.
Would you like to see more of what the toy can do?
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Posted by Immortal Starscream on April 9th, 2021 @ 6:50pm CDT
Posted by chuckdawg1999 on April 9th, 2021 @ 7:00pm CDT
primalxconvoy wrote:I might be going blind in my old age, as I couldn't see the video link for the advert, so here it is, if it hasn't been linked to yet:
- https://youtu.be/GSc0JTanOnQ
Didn't Robosen also make their own transforming robot toys before, including a an unofficial, "KO/3P" Optimus Prime figure, unless this was just a custom version of their regular, grey bot?
- https://youtu.be/iC5uXxwuR3A
I believe this bot below is a prototype of the new, official version?
- https://youtu.be/0mCp7PHpw0Q
Also, here's how their previous bot is controlled by the app:
- https://youtu.be/tgSAX_ouYDw
I'm a bit concerned about apps, as they aren't always supported for the future, meaning that, unless a hardware controller of some sort is also included (or can be bought separately to use with it), then the functionality of this rather expensive toy will become limited.
Excellent point, how many OS updates will this be supported for; 2,3? Is that Deadpool head app still around?
Posted by cloudballoon on April 9th, 2021 @ 8:41pm CDT
primalxconvoy wrote:I'm a bit concerned about apps, as they aren't always supported for the future, meaning that, unless a hardware controller of some sort is also included (or can be bought separately to use with it), then the functionality of this rather expensive toy will become limited.
These type of IoT app most likely controls the bot by Bluetooth. The solution is probably install the app in an old phone that you don't use anymore. With so many people upgrading their phone every 2~3 years, they're easy to find among friends even if you don't have one laying under the couch/drawers.
Posted by EunuchRon on April 9th, 2021 @ 8:46pm CDT
Posted by primalxconvoy on April 9th, 2021 @ 9:19pm CDT
cloudballoon wrote:primalxconvoy wrote:I'm a bit concerned about apps, as they aren't always supported for the future, meaning that, unless a hardware controller of some sort is also included (or can be bought separately to use with it), then the functionality of this rather expensive toy will become limited.
These type of IoT app most likely controls the bot by Bluetooth. The solution is probably install the app in an old phone that you don't use anymore. With so many people upgrading their phone every 2~3 years, they're easy to find among friends even if you don't have one laying under the couch/drawers.
That's one way, but not everyone keeps their phones, or has a working phone. Also, the app itself might be pulled from Google Play or Apple's shop. Updates could also be made to the app that breaks it and/or makes it a subscription service, etc (which has happened with other "smart" devices). Finally, part of the system this toy relies upon might be cloud-based, meaning that if the servers are turned-off, full or part functionality is lost (again,, which has happened to other smart/connected devices).
I don't want to take such a gamble on such an expensive product.
Posted by YRQRM0 on April 9th, 2021 @ 9:34pm CDT
primalxconvoy wrote:cloudballoon wrote:primalxconvoy wrote:I'm a bit concerned about apps, as they aren't always supported for the future, meaning that, unless a hardware controller of some sort is also included (or can be bought separately to use with it), then the functionality of this rather expensive toy will become limited.
These type of IoT app most likely controls the bot by Bluetooth. The solution is probably install the app in an old phone that you don't use anymore. With so many people upgrading their phone every 2~3 years, they're easy to find among friends even if you don't have one laying under the couch/drawers.
That's one way, but not everyone keeps their phones, or has a working phone. Also, the app itself might be pulled from Google Play or Apple's shop. Updates could also be made to the app that breaks it and/or makes it a subscription service, etc (which has happened with other "smart" devices). Finally, part of the system this toy relies upon might be cloud-based, meaning that if the servers are turned-off, full or part functionality is lost (again,, which has happened to other smart/connected devices).
I don't want to take such a gamble on such an expensive product.
I agree that an old phone is very easy to get ahold of, but I share the sentiment about a hardware controller being better. It looked like from the other demo video thought that a lot could be done without the app? If you can voice command/transform him without the app, assuming he's not actively getting firmware updates that break him, he could still be worth it for me. Maybe.
Posted by AgeEighty on April 9th, 2021 @ 9:46pm CDT
I'm not too worried about the app concerns. Seems unlikely a physical controller could even begin to offer all the features he's got, and I can always get hold of an old phone and sideload an old version of the app.
Posted by Emerje on April 9th, 2021 @ 10:08pm CDT
These have come a long ways since the spindly, brick-footed, thin paneled bots that looked like they'd shake apart just walking. This Prime looks as good as any Optimus Prime figure on the market, looks great in both modes, has lights and sounds with Peter Cullen's voice, and can both walk and drive around. At 19" tall, to me, this is a $700 item. The Robosen T9 came out at $500 (they're about $400 now), and has a lot of the same features as Optimus, but is quite a bit smaller and doesn't come with accessories, and doesn't talk (and certainly isn't Optimus Prime). I'm undecided.
Emerje
Posted by primalxconvoy on April 9th, 2021 @ 10:31pm CDT
Yes, I understand that this is primarily available in the US, but as fans, we live in an age of importing things from online. With digital products, there are then extra (unneeded) obstacles, seemingly added artificially IMO, which hinders value.
In the picture below, you can see that the app is available at Google Play (as a beta), via the website, but it's not available at the Google Play app for my phone in Japan.
Posted by Emerje on April 9th, 2021 @ 11:20pm CDT
primalxconvoy wrote:Yes, I understand that this is primarily available in the US, but as fans, we live in an age of importing things from online. With digital products, there are then extra (unneeded) obstacles, seemingly added artificially IMO, which hinders value.
You'll have to take that up with Takara Tomy. Hasbro has nothing to do with the Japanese market so there's little in it for them to fund a Japanese version of the app while they do sell toys in the rest of the world. If TT decides to offer this as well (and they would be crazy not to!) then you'll get your Japanese app. It does have preloaded voice commands so it isn't completely useless without the app.
Emerje
Posted by primalxconvoy on April 9th, 2021 @ 11:39pm CDT
These problems aren't such an issue with an "analogue" or regular TF toy, but with digital products, there are more barriers to entry. As for Japan, of it was available, I fear it would have Japanese language only GUI and voice samples, thus limiting the appeal of both the American and Japanese versions for me.
Also, if the app isn't compatible with my Android device/OS (as Android is rather fragmented), that would also limit this product's relevance. I'm not going to pay 500 dollars for a toy that I can only talk to. I want to hold a physical controller and speak to it through that, whilst also using physical joysticks to control it like a real RC car/robot.
I can only hope that Hasbro and Takara work to make truly international products, such as their existing analogue range.
Posted by william-james88 on April 9th, 2021 @ 11:43pm CDT
This definitely explains my lack of excitement over this release, it felt so passé.
Posted by primalxconvoy on April 9th, 2021 @ 11:56pm CDT
Posted by Dead Metal on April 10th, 2021 @ 3:08am CDT
william-james88 wrote:Just curious, am I the only one who's friends have been sending the video of this same toy for years now?
This definitely explains my lack of excitement over this release, it felt so passé.
No you're not. There have been versions of this shown off for years now. The difference is, that it looks like Hasbro now actually gave them an official licence to actually sell it. Before it was just something to show off their tech and was never intended to be an actual product.
This is cool, but I'm not going to go check out what it costs because I'm sure it's not in my budget.
Posted by Emerje on April 10th, 2021 @ 3:10am CDT
Emerje
Posted by GeekyGamer Gal on April 10th, 2021 @ 7:46am CDT
Posted by primalxconvoy on April 10th, 2021 @ 8:41am CDT
GeekyGamer Gal wrote:I would just like to add for people concerned about the life expectancy of the app, but I'm certain once this guy gets released that there will be some hobbyist robotics groups that would jump at the chance to hack one of these guys. I know the one I was apart of, before they fell apart due to some strong personalities, would probably already be pre-ordering two or three apiece to take one apart, one to hack, and one to keep as original, but still functioning, as possible. The good thing about most of these groups is that the steps and software used to hack this OP will be available for free.
That's great, but I'm not sure if it's an option for everyone. Of course, we cannot say for certain about any of these possible problems, as it's not known if it is cloud based, but regardless, here's an article about the "death" of a cloud-based robot:
- https://www.kinvert.com/anki-robotics-c ... ting-down/
And let's not forget about the original Aibo:
- https://www.digitaltrends.com/cool-tech ... -in-japan/
Posted by DeathReviews on April 10th, 2021 @ 2:17pm CDT
Ah well. Neat figure, anyway. I share the concern voiced by others about how well the app will be supported in the future. Sure it's brand new NOW - but many apps become defunct and unsupported in less than a year. Before plunking down any of your mortal 'skretch', we'd want some pretty solid promises that the app will REMAIN supported indefinitely.
Posted by chuckdawg1999 on April 10th, 2021 @ 8:48pm CDT
Posted by Emerje on April 11th, 2021 @ 6:55am CDT
chuckdawg1999 wrote:Apparently it has pre-order sold out.
Still showing up as available to pre-order for me.
Emerje
Posted by JohnHope on April 11th, 2021 @ 8:35am CDT
John.
Posted by ZeroWolf on April 11th, 2021 @ 9:48am CDT
JohnHope wrote:Does anyone have any idea if it will be available outside of America? Im trying to get it to the UK, but the official site doesn't allow you to preorder outside of America or Canada. doesn't look like the usual suspects have it available to either. Not even BBTS which I usually use.
John.
At the moment, I think you're sadly out of luck at the moment (seemingly it's the one thing that was revealed that you can't preorder on the UK site). Might be best to wait a little bit and see if any thing changes
Posted by AgeEighty on April 11th, 2021 @ 12:41pm CDT
Posted by Barricade.it on April 12th, 2021 @ 2:07am CDT
Anyway: in the video, for few istants, OP has a plate behind his head which is not shown in the other images. How will He look in the end?
Posted by AgeEighty on April 12th, 2021 @ 12:22pm CDT
Posted by Nemesis Reformatted on April 25th, 2021 @ 10:46am CDT
Posted by chuckdawg1999 on April 25th, 2021 @ 9:45pm CDT
Posted by blackeyedprime on July 19th, 2023 @ 12:26pm CDT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swIiwo0kKIc
Pricey as hell but neat. also people were complaining about the voice but it is the original voice actor in the final product.
Posted by bluecatcinema on July 19th, 2023 @ 2:01pm CDT
Posted by Quantum Surge on July 19th, 2023 @ 2:13pm CDT
blackeyedprime wrote:dunno where to post Robosen things but grimlockis neaaaattttt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swIiwo0kKIc
Pricey as hell but neat. also people were complaining about the voice but it is the original voice actor in the final product.
Grimlock already beats Prime
Posted by Overcracker on July 19th, 2023 @ 2:36pm CDT
Posted by Jelze Bunnycat on July 19th, 2023 @ 5:49pm CDT
Posted by Emerje on July 19th, 2023 @ 7:16pm CDT
Now, here's the down side: $1,499. That's right, not only is he more than twice the prices of the previous Optimus Prime releases but also costs more than Robosen Elite Optimus Prime and the trailer together! It's a big ask that will certainly price out the majority of fans. But those that can justify the price are going to receive a very impressive bit of robotics.
Thanks to fellow Seibertronian blackeyedprime for the heads up!
Via Hasbro Pulse:
Introducing the world's first dual-form, bidpedal walking robot. This is the most articulated robot engineered by Robosen with 34 small, yet, high-torque and high-efficient servo motors that activates seamless conversion, while ensuring stable and smooth movements. The 6-axis IMU sensors constantly monitor the robot's balance, delivering even greater stability.
Built in rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery (2500mAh)
Authentic G1 Sounds
Grimlock has built-in 150+ original Generation 1 Transformers audio lines, recorded exclusively for Robosen by Gregg Berger, original voice of G1 Grimlock. These iconic soundy bytes are paired with robotic actions, providing an immersive entertainment experience. It can recognize 42 voice commands, allowing a hands-free interaction with the robot for conversion, walking, and other various stunning stunts.
Elevate Grimlock's Playability
Control Grimlock in both dino mode and robot mode simply from the app. Enjoy quick responses with Bluetooth BLE 5.0 as you remote control the robot's auto-conversion, movements, and impressive actions from any mobile device.
MiniTheater
With the app's "MiniTheater" feature, enjoy captivating solo performances in SoloPlay mode and thrilling coordinated displays in MultiPlay mode. Join forces with Optimus Prime and defeat the Decepticons in epic battle reenactments. Stay tuned for more immersive adventures with other Robosen Transformers robots.
Programmable Robot Share and Download Actions
We offer four programming modes, making it easy to program new actions for Grimlock. We also provide cloud sharing functionality, allowing Robosen users from around the world to freely create, share, and download other custom actions, enabling Grimlock to do so much more!
Block-base Programming
where you can drag modules to set the angles and speeds of the robot's movements, and create a segment of robot movements to reproduce classic scenes from the movies.
Manual Programming
Intelligent manual manipulation, where you can directly adjust the joints to suitable angles and positions to quickly create robot movements.
Voice Programming
say "start programming" to the robot, and then say multiple command words in the order you want, and then say "execute" after completion, and you can easily create a robot performance according to the order of the voice commands.
Computer-based programming
When you want to unleash the full potential of Grimlock robot, we recommend using computer-based 3D programming software.
More excitement awaits you on the Robosen APP
Posted by First-Aid on July 19th, 2023 @ 7:28pm CDT
Sooooo expensive though....
Posted by Stormshot_Prime on July 19th, 2023 @ 7:29pm CDT
Posted by Dr. Caelus on July 19th, 2023 @ 7:40pm CDT
Stormshot_Prime wrote:Imagine showing this to someone in the early 80’s. I hope we get a Con next (not like I’d be able to afford it!).
I considered it. I realized that I could liquidate more of my collection and pay for it, and since Grimlock is my favorite, it might be worth it. Take up less space to.
But if one of my hundreds of figures falls off a shelf and bursts into a thousand pieces, it would make me sad. If I dropped this with my fantastically undexterous fingers, I would be heartbroken.
Posted by Quantum Surge on July 19th, 2023 @ 7:47pm CDT
Posted by Brokebot on July 19th, 2023 @ 9:01pm CDT
Posted by Silver Wind on July 19th, 2023 @ 9:50pm CDT
Posted by Enigmatronics on July 19th, 2023 @ 11:42pm CDT
Regardless, It is an impressive piece of engineering.
Cheers!
Posted by blackeyedprime on July 20th, 2023 @ 12:12am CDT
Posted by Emerje on July 20th, 2023 @ 12:36am CDT
Enigmatronics wrote:I submitted this "News" as soon as I got the notification from Hasbro Pulse today in the early afternoon. Yet I don't see credit for the info.
Regardless, It is an impressive piece of engineering.
Cheers!
I get the same emails everyone else gets from Pulse, the credit on this one was really for the YouTube link more than anything.
Emerje
Posted by blackeyedprime on July 20th, 2023 @ 1:37am CDT
Posted by -Kanrabat- on July 20th, 2023 @ 4:42am CDT
Grimlock on the other hand is PERFECTION. As if the Masterpiece toy came to life! Plus the transformation sequence is very, very impressive. No matter the angle, both the bot and dino look amazing on all angles.
Sure, 1500$US is a LOT of money. But to have something perfect, you have to put in the price. I will never buy this but if I had the money to spare, Robosen Grimlock would be a no brainer.
Posted by Rodimus Prime on July 20th, 2023 @ 10:36am CDT
Posted by Sabrblade on July 20th, 2023 @ 10:48am CDT
Posted by DeathReviews on July 20th, 2023 @ 12:05pm CDT
Posted by Sabrblade on July 20th, 2023 @ 12:53pm CDT
But figure will eat and make fart noises:DeathReviews wrote:Disclaimer: Figure will NOT actually belch flames.
Posted by Dominus Prime on July 20th, 2023 @ 1:18pm CDT
Posted by DeathReviews on July 20th, 2023 @ 1:47pm CDT