Gita made headlines back in 2017 with the launch of its bright blue orb-shaped cargo robot. Parent company Piaggio Fast Forward has now revealed the consumer version adding some features to the original prototype while curtailing others. This is the same company that makes the not so glorious Vespa scooters. The original design contained a self-balancing autonomous robot (weighing 50 lb or 22.7 kg) that can cart goods weighing 40 lb (18 kg) at a nimble speed of 35 km/h (22 mph). The robot was created to supplement the "human masters" with their load carrying while keeping them hands-free for other useful activities.

Consumer-focused personal robots have a spotty history. In 2017, Jibo was touted as the world's first social robot for the home but it ended up flopping soon after. Bosch took a stab a creating a rolling robot named Kuri in 2018 and months later the product was a dud. Now another company is taking a stab at it, launching a new yet familiar spin on personal service machines. Rather than keeping you company at home, gita (pronounced Jee-Tah) wants to help you go hands-free while you walk down the street, to the grocery store or to visit your neighbors.

A spherical, cargo robot that carries up to 40 pounds while trailing behind its owner can be yours for just $3,250. Vespa scooter maker has unveiled a redesign of its personal robot called Gita, which aims to free its human's hands so they can engage with others and enjoy activities. The ball-like machine stands about 26 inches and uses vision sensors to follow you -- and it will be available to the public next month. A spherical, cargo robot that carries up to 40 pounds while trailing behind its owner can be yours for just $3,250. Vespa scooter maker has unveiled a redesign of its personal robot called Gita, which aims to free its human's hands so they can engage with others and enjoy activities Instead of deciding to use an automobile or truck to transport to lug packages and other goods, Piaggio Fast Forward, the creating firm, wants to help people walk, run, pedal and skate through life with the assistance of a family of vehicles like Gita.