Wonder Workshop isn’t a new name when it comes to getting children interested in technology. The CEO of Wonder Workshop is very interested in helping children learn more about technology and coding. He claims that in the next decade, there will be one million more technology jobs in the US then we have qualified graduates to fill. Some economists forecast say by 2050 over 40% of jobs will require some form of development, coding, robotic, or AI system management experience.
Today, Wonder Workshop is launching Cue and the Dot Creativity Kit. The first product that Wonder Workshop is launching, Cue, is aimed at older kids. With two powered wheels, proximity sensors, IR receivers and transmitters, and even microphones and speakers, it has a wide array of interactive options. You can chat with Cue by sending texts through the iPhone, Android, and Kindle application. Cue has a huge library with over 30,000 responses and over 170,000 words according to Wonder Workshop. You also have the ability to use custom coding with Cue, using either programming blocks, JavaScript, or even Apple’s Swift coming in November.
Cue also gives you the ability to use any of its automatic modes, ranging from seeking, avoidance, and exploration mode. Depending on which mode you choose, Cue can navigate corners and dodge obstacles with its witty personality all the way. Also, thanks to the built-in proximity sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometer, and other interface options, Cue can have countless opportunities to create different environments for which to play with it in. You also have the ability to choose your own avatar, ranging from Smirk (a risk-taker with a charming personality), Charge (a compassionate commander), Zest (a smooth talker), and Pep (an eager achiever). The first avatar is free, and each additional one is $4.99 through an in-app purchase.
Dot is a creative bot designed for children from 6-11 years old. It is a great little robot to help kids learn different coding and problem-solving skills. Dot comes pre-loaded with several projects, from crafting to code breaking, storytelling, and even construction. Dot is already pre-assembled out of the box, and you can dress your Dot up, bowl with your Dot, build a mood lamp, and even built a protection robot. Dot comes with 20 project cards, 10 costumes, 100 re-usable stickers, 3 different apps to use, and even Lego compatible connectors.
Cue will be available for pre-order starting today for $199.99 at makewonder.com and Apple and begins shipping September 28th. Dot is available for pre-order for $79.99 at makewonder.com as well, and also begins shipping September 28th.
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