What happened
Hugging Face's Pollen Robotics launched the Microduck, a one-eyed biped robot under 10 inches tall, available for preorder now at $399 in four colors, with shipping planned before Christmas 2026.
Why it matters
The Microduck is open-source like the previous Reachy Mini, so users can retrain it to do new tricks, and it reacts to its surroundings, follows a laser pointer, and can be controlled with a game controller.
What to watch
Each Microduck gets its own unique audio identity on first wake-up, and the robot includes a camera, motion sensors, LiDAR, and articulated legs, head, and neck.
Summaries like this, in your inbox every morning.
The Microduck is the second cute AI robot from Pollen Robotics, following the Reachy Mini. Its small size and open-source nature suggest a focus on accessibility and customization for hobbyists and educators. The robot's ability to sing with a unique audio identity adds a personality-driven appeal, positioning it as more of a companion than a utilitarian tool. With a price of $399, it enters a consumer market where affordability and novelty are key, potentially expanding the audience for open-source robotics.
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