Knightscope, the leading developer of autonomous security robots, has announced the commencement of shipping for its new product – the K5 Autonomous Security Robot (ASR) of the fifth generation. This milestone signifies a significant leap for the company and marks a complete redesign of their flagship ASR. The production of these robots has been established at the company’s headquarters in Silicon Valley, and Knightscope is now prepared to fulfill orders throughout the United States.
The new K5V5 model has been designed from the ground up, taking into account over 2.5 million hours of real-world operational experience. Among the enhancements are a wider robot base for improved stability, increased height for the 4K video cameras, enhanced battery architecture, extended audio surveys, and additional lighting for nighttime operations. The redesign also focuses on making robot maintenance more convenient.
The K5V5 is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its predecessor, the K5, has successfully patrolled various locations across the United States for over 8.5 years, significantly contributing to a reduction in crime rates. Building upon this experience, the new generation K5 aims to further advance Knightscope’s mission of making the United States the safest country in the world.
The K5 stands out for its autonomy and versatility, as it operates around the clock without human intervention. The robot is capable of traversing parking lots, corporate campuses, schools, hospitals, and transportation hubs. Its compact size and speed enable comprehensive surveillance, covering areas that may be out of reach for stationary cameras.
The KnightScope K5 robot is already being utilized by the New York police in a pilot program at various Manhattan metro stations. Mayor Eric Adams has emphasized the significance of employing technology to safeguard local residents, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of the robot. Richard Davei, President of NYC Transit, has also commended the device for its role in enhancing safety, particularly with the growing number of passengers.
The introduction of police robots like the K5 offers both advantages in terms of security and awareness, as well as raises ethical and privacy concerns. Ongoing debates and legislative developments underscore the need for a balanced approach in utilizing such technologies.