Vision-based tennis training hits Kickstarter with Tenniix
The Tenniix T-APEX ball launcher is now live on Kickstarter, pitching itself as a smarter way to up your tenis skills. What makes this device stand out is the combination of AI software with a compact vision-tracking hardware unit that’s surprisingly portable.
Tennis ball launchers are typically very expensive in price. But they are coming down in price. The first such device was Slinger Bag – which we reviewed a few years ago. Since then there have been a few others. Tenniix is the latest entrant in this space.
A different kind of tennis robot
Now this isn’t your basic ball machine that lobs shots at fixed intervals from the baseline. Tenniix calls the T-APEX a “vision-based AI tennis robot,” which sounds ambitious until you see what they’re actually offering. The system uses a camera-based unit that scans the player’s position in real time and adjusts ball trajectories accordingly. It’s paired with ultra-wideband sensors and an AI engine which simulates human-like rallies. Yes, you know longer need a flesh and blood opponent.
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The core promise is customisation. Tenniix says the machine can run more than a thousand training drills and will even offer feedback and difficulty adjustments as you go. There’s a “smart match” mode that mimics point play, but instead of pre-programmed sequences, it adapts depending on your shot response. That sort of reactive training could make solo sessions less repetitive and more tactical.
As far as specifics – the machine is capable of dishing up servers up to 75 miles per hour and 5000 RPM spin. Plus it can launch 8.5 meter lobs at you.
Portability and voice control built in
One thing that is noticeable is how much thought went into the design. The whole setup weighs about 7 kilograms, which is about half the weight compared to traditional ball machines. With a 360 degrees movable base module, a 46 degree horizontal gimbal and 50 degree vertical launcher – the thing also supports voice and gesture commands, so players can trigger drills without running back to the control panel or fiddling with apps mid-rally.
You also get a built-in rechargeable battery that Tenniix says should last long enough for about 4 hours between charges. And you can fit around 100 tennis balls in the pouch.
The companion app controls everything from shot frequency to lateral positioning. You can also dive into analysis of your game in the app. There’s a lot going on here, but the UI looks clean and usable from the demos that are posted on the crowdfunding page.
Who it’s for and what it costs
This isn’t exactly targeted at beginners. It’s clear that the company is aiming for ambitious amateurs, competitive juniors, adult league players, or even clubs looking for a digital assistant coach. There are several different tiers, with Tenniix Basic starting from an early bird price of $699.
The campaign’s already smashed its goal and is now creeping toward stretch perks. It all sounds good, but the real test comes when players take it out and see how it holds up during actual rallies. Honestly, the next step after this is a launcher that scoops up the balls for you while you’re catching your breath.
Price: $699 and up
Raised: $366,767 of $12,855 goal
Estimated delivery: July 2025
42 days to go
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