Tennis gets personal with new AI training robot PongBot

A new AI-powered tennis training robot called PongBot is generating a buzz on Kickstarter. With nearly a month to go in its campaign, it has already secured $1.3 million in backing from more than 1,300 supporters. So what makes this device so interesting?

A few years ago, we reviewed the Slinger ball machine, which impressed us with its sleek design. While the PongBot Pace S Series may not match Slinger’s aesthetic appeal and coolness factor, it appears to surpass it in terms of technical capabilities and training functionality.

At its core, the PongBot Pace uses multiple sensors to track player movements and returns, allowing it to adapt its behavior in real-time. To this end it comes with 3 little transmitters. You clip two of them to the net posts, and one of them to you.

This means that rather than simply firing balls in pre-programmed patterns, this smart machine analyzes player performance and adjusts its spin, speed, and direction during the session. This creates a more dynamic training experience that better mirrors actual match play. The machine’s ability to detect patterns in player behavior and modify its responses accordingly helps develop crucial skills like timing, footwork, and reaction speed.

The AI’s adaptive nature means it can increase difficulty gradually as players improve, maintaining an optimal learning curve. This flexibility addresses a common challenge in tennis training where finding consistent practice partners at the right skill level can be difficult.

All of this makes it suitable for players across skill levels. Beginners can work on fundamental skills at a comfortable pace, while advanced players can challenge themselves with more complex drills and scenarios. In total there are over 300 pro-level pre-programmed drills, intelligent ball frequency that depends on your real-time movement and much more.

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PongBot’s developers have also emphasized user control through a companion mobile app. Players can select preset routines or design custom training sessions, adding another layer of personalization to their practice. This remote control capability allows for quick adjustments without repeatedly returning to the machine. The app interface will enable players to track their progress over time and adjust training parameters such as ball speed, spin rate, and shot placement to focus on specific aspects of their game.

As far as specific tech specs – the device is capable of flinging balls at you at up to 80 miles per hour with spins up to 60 rps. It can even lob you with balls raising 8.1 meters above ground. Ball capacity is around 150 and battery life comes in at 8 hours per charge.

The tennis training landscape has evolved significantly with the integration of smart technology. PongBot Pace represents another step forward, offering players the ability to practice consistently and purposefully, even without a human partner. With 27 days remaining in its crowdfunding campaign, the project has smashed through its funding goal, suggesting that players are eager to embrace this innovative gadget.

The PongBot Pace S Series is available at an early bird price starting at $799. There’s a regular and Pro variant. The good news is that backers can expect to receive the device before the end of this year. At least, that’s the promise.

Price: $799 and up

Funds raised: $1,326,817 out of $10,000 goal.

Estimated delivery: December 2024
27 days to go

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