Reach Robotics Reach Robotics is a robotics company that creates immersive, interactive robots designed for gaming, STEM education, and creative learning experiences. Best known for its flagship product, MekaMon, Reach Robotics offers a blend of augmented reality (AR), robotics, and gaming to provide users with a unique and educational experience. With a focus on blending physical and digital interaction, the company aims to redefine robotics entertainment while promoting STEM skills and creative coding.
In this review, we’ll explore Reach Robotics’ products, features, learning benefits, pricing, and overall value.
Key Findings
Pros
- Innovative AR and Robotics Fusion:
- Combines augmented reality gaming with real-world robotics.
- Educational and Entertaining:
- Teaches coding, robotics, and problem-solving.
- Customizable and Programmable:
- Supports Python and block-based coding.
- High-Quality Build:
- Durable and sleek robot design with fluid movement.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility:
- Works with iOS and Android devices.
- Multi-Player and Solo Modes:
- Flexible gaming experiences.
Cons
- Premium Pricing:
- More expensive than standard educational robots.
- Limited STEM Curriculum Support:
- Less structured for classroom use compared to competitors.
- App-Dependent:
- AR gaming requires companion app functionality.
- Discontinued Consumer Sales:
- No longer available for direct consumer purchase; now focused on B2B licensing.
About Reach Robotics
Founded in 2013 by Silas Adekunle, John Rees, and Chris Beck, Reach Robotics was initially focused on consumer robotics for gaming. The company’s flagship product, MekaMon, was launched in 2017, offering a unique fusion of robotics and augmented reality gaming.
In 2019, Reach Robotics shifted its focus from direct-to-consumer sales to B2B licensing and partnerships. The company now collaborates with educational institutions, developers, and gaming companies to integrate its robotics technology into learning and entertainment platforms.
Mission and Values
Reach Robotics’ mission is to:
- Redefine Interactive Robotics:
- Create immersive and entertaining robotic experiences.
- Promote STEM Learning Through Play:
- Use gaming as a tool to teach robotics and coding skills.
- Innovate AR and Physical Interaction:
- Merge digital and physical gameplay.
- Foster Creativity and Problem-Solving:
- Encourage users to program, customise, and experiment.
Products and Features
Reach Robotics’ primary product is MekaMon, a multi-functional, AR-powered robot designed for gaming, coding, and interactive learning.
1. MekaMon V2
MekaMon V2 is the latest iteration of Reach Robotics’ flagship product, offering enhanced movement, connectivity, and augmented reality features.
- AR-Enhanced Gameplay:
- Seamless integration with augmented reality environments.
- Includes battle and exploration modes.
- Programmable and Customizable:
- Compatible with Python and Scratch coding platforms.
- Allows users to customise behaviours, movements, and responses.
- Fluid and Realistic Movement:
- Features four-legged motion with 360-degree mobility.
- Advanced Sensors:
- Equipped with accelerometers, gyroscopes, and proximity sensors.
- Cross-Platform App:
- Compatible with iOS and Android devices.
- Key Features:
- AR and physical interaction.
- Customisable coding capabilities.
- Multi-player and solo gaming modes.
- Benefits:
- Immersive gaming experience: Combines digital and physical gameplay.
- Hands-on coding skills: Teaches robotics programming.
- Creative customisation: Encourages experimentation with coding.
Learning Benefits
Reach Robotics’ products are designed to offer both entertainment and educational value, promoting STEM skills, creativity, and problem-solving.
1. Coding and Robotics Skills
- Block-Based and Python Coding:
- Supports both beginner-friendly visual coding (Scratch) and advanced text-based coding (Python).
- Customisable Behaviors:
- Users can program custom movements and responses.
- Real-World Application:
- Hands-on experience with robotic motion, sensors, and control.
2. Augmented Reality (AR) Skills
- Interactive AR Gaming:
- Combines robotic movements with AR gameplay.
- AR-Based Challenges:
- Encourages users to develop spatial awareness and problem-solving.
- Mixed Reality Experiences:
- Enhances digital-physical interaction.
3. Creativity and Problem-Solving
- Customisable Animations:
- Users can design their own movements and behaviours.
- Open-Ended Challenges:
- Promotes creative experimentation with coding and AR.
- Dynamic Gameplay:
- Encourages adaptive thinking in battle and exploration modes.
Target Audience
Reach Robotics’ products are designed for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and educational institutions.
1. Educational Institutions
- STEM Education:
- Ideal for coding clubs and after-school programs.
- Higher Education:
- Suitable for robotics and programming courses.
- Corporate Training:
- Used for robotics and AR demonstrations.
2. Gamers and Tech Enthusiasts
- AR Gaming Fans:
- Interactive battle and exploration modes.
- Robotics Hobbyists:
- Opportunity to customise and program robotic behaviours.
- Creative Coders:
- Hands-on robotic coding experiences.
Pricing and Availability
1. MekaMon V2
- Original Retail Price:
- Priced at $299 – $399 per unit.
- B2B Licensing Only:
- No longer available for direct-to-consumer purchase.
- Now offered through licensing deals with educational and tech organisations.
2. App and Subscription
- MekaMon App:
- Free to download on iOS and Android.
- Coding Platform:
- Access to coding and customisation features included with robot purchase.
User Experience and Customer Support
Reach Robotics offers a seamless user experience through its app-powered robot and interactive gameplay.
1. Ease of Use
- Simple Setup:
- Quick connection to iOS and Android devices.
- Intuitive Interface:
- Easy-to-use app for controlling and programming the robot.
2. Customer Support
- Online Support:
- FAQs, setup guides, and troubleshooting tips.
- Customer Service:
- Email and ticket-based support.
A Leader in AR-Powered Robotics
Reach Robotics offers a cutting-edge blend of augmented reality, robotics, and gaming, making it a unique platform for both entertainment and education. With its MekaMon robot, users can enjoy immersive AR battles while learning coding skills, making it a powerful tool for STEM learning and creative expression.
Although no longer available for direct consumer purchase, Reach Robotics’ B2B licensing strategy ensures its technology continues to impact educational institutions, gaming platforms, and tech innovators.