Boston Dynamics announces availability of Spot robot dog

Boston Dynamics' dog-like quadruped Spot robot is now shipping (for lease) to early adopters, according to CNET.

The general public knows Spot for its viral video exploits, where it has twerked to Bruno Mars and worked together in a pack to haul a truck across a parking lot.

The Spot launch video takes things a little more seriously by showing off the robot's capabilities along with a variety of pertinent specs. It can move at up to 4.8 km/h, has an average runtime of about 90 minutes and can operate in rugged terrain. Spot owners can swap out the battery in its belly to keep it going.

Spot is geared for industrial uses. "Early customers are already testing Spot to monitor construction sites, provide remote inspection at gas, oil and power installations, and in public safety," said Boston Dynamics in the video description.

The Spot page takes you to a sales contact link, which doesn't reveal pricing information.

"Our general guidance is that the total cost of the early adopter program lease will be less than the price of a car — but how nice a car will depend on the number of Spots leased and how long the customer will be leasing the robot," said Boston Dynamics Marketing Specialist Natalie Alper.