New York-Based Startup Launches Crowdfunding Campaign For Self-Driving Stroller "Smartbe"

In Silicon Valley, companies such as Google, Tesla Motors, Nissan, and Toyota, are on a race to be the first to mass produce self-driving cars. But in Manhattan, a similar technology is being developed. A NYC startup company has launched a crowdfunding campaign to produce what it claims to be "the first intelligent stroller in the world."

"Smartbe is a revolutionary concept as regards design and functionality that solves real parents and baby needs," the company explained on Indiegogo. "We have built a new baby stroller with all the needed intelligence to provide new levels of child safety and comfort never before imagined together in a stroller."

The intelligent machine is equipped with a motor which makes the task of pushing the stroller, especially on an uphill road, seem effortless. Parents also have the option to go hands-free or let the machine do the stirring while mom or dad sneaks in a little bit of morning jog. 

Because the stroller also has motion sensors, it wouldn't wander around aimlessly. Smartbe will be able to keep track to the parent and stay close to them so they can keep an eye on the child at all times. 

If the parent, for example, starts running forward, Smartbe will be able to keep up and start moving forward without being prompted. It stops when the parent stops walking. The strollers can also avoid obstacles without veering too far. 

Smartbe has other functionalities like keeping the bottles warm, controling the temperature inside the bassinet, and retractable canopies to keep the sun and insects out. It can even rock a lullabye when the child starts getting sleepy. 

Moreover, it puts the safety of the child at its core: the stroller has an alarm system that alerts the parent if someone tries to move the stroller without consent. Only authorized people such as both parents and the nanny can unlock Smartbe's wheels to keep the child out of harm.  

Cameras are installed inside and outside the stroller which connects to the Internet and can stream footage on a parent's smartphone in real-time. This allows them to monitor the child and his/her environment even if the parents are not physically present to identify potential risks or just keep their hearts at ease that the baby is safe and well-tended. 

Unfortunately, because it is packed with so much high-tech features and because it is first in the market, Smartbe will be expensive. Yahoo! Tech reported that it will cost US$3,199 for a unit and shipping will begin by April 2017. 

Smartbe Intelligent Stroller from Smartbe Intelligent Stroller on Vimeo.