Sphero announces launch of new SPRK+ robot
Tuesday June 21, 2016 0 comments
BOULDER -- Sphero today announced the worldwide launch of the company’s new SPRK+™ robot.
Designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and invention through connected play and coding, Sphero said SPRK+ is far more than just a ball. Powered by the Lightning Lab™ app, users can learn programming, complete hands-on activities, and share their creations with the global community.
SPRK+, in conjunction with the Lightning Lab app, is designed to teach foundational programming through STEAM activities. Both the robot and app experience promote 21st century skills through the wonders of robotics across all subject areas, the company said.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts one million more computer-science jobs than students by 2020, Sphero said, making learning tools like SPRK+ crucial to today’s curriculum. Today, Sphero’s SPRK products can be found in more than 1,000 schools throughout the U.S. and Canada, reaching more than 300,000 students.
A year ago, Sphero went full STEAM ahead into the education realm with the release of Sphero SPRK™ Edition. The new and improved SPRK+ takes hands-on learning up a notch with updates including:
- Tap To Connect: Equipped with Bluetooth SMART, the new tap-to-connect feature increases the ease of use specifically for teachers in the classroom.
- Scratch-Resistant Shell: An additional coating on the outside of the ball makes for a more scratch-resistant exterior, while keeping the integrity of the see-through shell.
Additional SPRK+ features include:
- Inductive charging
- Accelerometer and Gyroscope
- Shock resistant
- Programmable sensors
- Polycarbonate shell
- LED lights
- Waterproof
“If it’s a SPRK day, it’s without a doubt the best day of school for any student,” said David Millage, Sphero’s general manager of education.
“SPRK+ and Lightning Lab teach students valuable skills for the future under the disguise of play. Learning is evolving and we are seeing a transition from consumption to creation in the classroom.
“Our robots are being used to teach everything from art to physics in a fun and hands-on way that engage students on a new level.”
Additionally, a new and improved version of the SPRK Lightning Lab app is available for smart devices and desktop browsers, Sphero said. Featuring more than 150 new hands-on learning activities and an improved programming canvas, coding SPRK+ robots is easier and more rewarding than ever.
SPRK+ is now available on www.sphero.com for $129. For a full list of retailers, visit: http://www.sphero.com/retail-partners.
IN Sponsors
Browse
Entrepreneurial by Nature
