The term “Autonomous Telepresence” was coined to describe Sparky’s combination of face-to-face video conferencing and true wireless mobility. It’s the first device of it’s kind to deliver a realtime, video chat experience while allowing the robot chassis to be controlled from a remote location. By making the remote operator’s face the central focus of the robot, it creates an immediate and visceral connection between the robot and any people surrounding it.

Sparky creates interactivity in two distinct ways. First, the unique and mysterious nature of the technology serves as an invitation for all types of people to approach and engage the robot, so it can function very effectively as an outreach technology and as a social “ice breaker” in almost any live situataion. Secondly, remote access and control of the robot via the Internet allows for a new kind of social connection and interactivity to be available to those people who are unable for any reason to be physically present at a live event – reducing the spacial distances between people and enabling a new kind of interaction.

Watch video interviews of the artist describing his robotic work.