Xiaomi has unveiled the second generation of its CyberDog. The robot animal is now more intelligent than the first version, has softer edges, and can perform fancier tricks, including a backflip. At 8.9 kg, the robotic pet is now 40% smaller than the previous iteration. It’s also more lifelike, with a design that moves away from copying Boston Dynamics in favor of softer features and a head shape inspired by an actual Doberman. By the way, why a Doberman of all dog breeds is a question we don’t have an answer for. 

The new generation CyberDog uses 12 Xiaomi-made micro-motors and advanced motion algorithms to make the movements more fluid and real. These motors are 50% more accurate in torque than the older version and can achieve a peak torque density of 37.85 N.m/kg.

The Cyberdog 2 can perform various movements, from ballet steps to spacewalking, with surprising responsiveness, thanks to the new Xiaomi AI Reinforcement Learning Platform used to “train” the robot. Thanks to this platform, engineers at Xiaomi could simulate over 30,000 repetitions of dog training for each action.
 

The CyberDog 2 is also equipped with advanced sensors and processors, giving users the feeling it can behave with canine-like instinct and intelligence to handle complex situations. It features Xiaomi’s AI Multimodal Fusion Perception Decision System, with a powerful chip and co-processors allowing 2.1 million trillion calculations per second and 19 sensors for recognizing owners and roads. The Cyberdog also sports four sets of microphones for understanding owner commands and four camera types, including one sensor for depth perception.

The CyberDog 2 is currently available in China for 12,999 yuan (about US$1,785). So far, Xiaomi hasn’t given out any information about the possibility of a global launch.