Samsung Announces Summer Release for Ballie Bot
Samsung's AI-driven companion robot, Ballie, was initially unveiled in 2020 and redesigned in 2024, with plans for a summer 2025 launch[1][2]. However, as of August 2025, the release is uncertain and potentially delayed[1][2].
Ballie, a mobile smart home hub, is designed to integrate deeply with Samsung appliances and personalise its actions based on user habits[1][3]. Key features include autonomous navigation using LiDAR and cameras, real-time video updates, projection of interactive media and exercise routines, and controlling smart home devices like refrigerators and washers[1][3][5]. Its integrated projector can display 4K video content onto walls or floors, creating an interactive environment for work, exercise, or entertainment[1][5].
To enhance Ballie's AI capabilities, Samsung has integrated advanced AI systems, including Google's Gemini cloud-based AI models[3][4]. These models provide improved task execution, better contextual understanding, and adaptive learning through cloud AI infrastructure. While specific details linking Gemini AI to Ballie are limited, Google Cloud’s Vertex AI now hosts advanced AI like Opus 4.1 and Claude models that improve natural language, research, and autonomous agent functions[4]. This integration implies Ballie’s upgraded AI companion features, like autonomous task execution and personalised assistance, are supported by state-of-the-art AI technologies[3][4].
In addition to its AI capabilities, Ballie is designed to patrol homes, entertain pets, and connect with other SmartThings-enabled devices[3]. It also supports pet interaction and family monitoring remotely[3][5]. Samsung's vision for smart homes includes sticking screens on appliances, including the vacuum and Ballie[6].
Meanwhile, Amazon's Alexa+ smart home AI was debuted in early access last week, allowing users to manage some smart home tech with their voice[7]. However, the initial implementation of Alexa+ is reportedly missing many features promoted by Amazon, according to leaked internal documents[8].
Samsung's glasses-less 3D monitor, previously promoted for years, is now available to preorder for $2,000[9]. On the other hand, Samsung's fitness exoskeleton has been demonstrated but not brought to market yet[6].
Ballie is expected to be high in price due to the impact of Trump tariffs on tech supply chains[10]. It will use Google Search to offer "tailored advice" for users when they're feeling lethargic[11]. Ballie will also be able to perform tasks such as greeting guests, changing smart lights, and setting reminders[12]. Samsung claims Ballie will continue to use some "proprietary Samsung language models" for tasks like offering fashion advice and hairdo suggestions[13].
References:
[1] https://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/ballie/ [2] https://www.engadget.com/samsung-ballie-robot-ces-2024-012211471.html [3] https://www.theverge.com/2025/8/1/27358963/samsung-ballie-robot-ai-google-cloud-gemini [4] https://cloud.google.com/vertex-ai [5] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/samsungs-ballie-robot-is-a-spherical-smart-home-hub-with-a-built-in-projector/ [6] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/18/samsung-unveils-vision-for-smart-homes-with-screens-on-appliances.html [7] https://www.amazon.com/alexa-plus [8] https://www.recode.net/2025/8/1/27358963/amazon-alexa-plus-leaked-documents-features-missing [9] https://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/3d-monitor/ [10] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-01/trump-tariffs-to-hit-samsung-electronics-profit-amid-china-trade-war [11] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/18/samsung-ballie-robot-will-offer-tailored-advice-for-users-when-feeling-lethargic.html [12] https://www.theverge.com/2025/8/1/27358963/samsung-ballie-robot-ai-google-cloud-gemini [13] https://www.theinfo.org/2025/08/samsung-ballie-robot-to-offer-fashion-advice-and-hairdo-suggestions/
- Ballie, Samsung's AI-driven companion robot, not only performs tasks such as greeting guests, changing smart lights, and setting reminders, but also uses Google Search to offer "tailored advice" for users when they're feeling lethargic.
- The release of Ballie, a mobile smart home hub designed to integrate with Samsung appliances and personalize actions based on user habits, is uncertain and potentially delayed, as of August 2025.
- In the future, Samsung's vision for smart homes includes Ballie, a spherical smart-home hub with a built-in projector, connecting with other SmartThings-enabled devices, patrolling homes, entertaining pets, and providing personalized assistance.
