Sphero’s Newest ‘Bot Proves Learning is Evolving. Get on the Ball.
BOULDER, Colo.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sphero
announced today the worldwide launch of their new SPRK+™ robot. Designed
to inspire curiosity, creativity, and invention through connected play
and coding, SPRK+ is far more than just a ball. Powered by the Lightning
Lab™ app, users can learn programming, complete hands-on activities, and
share their creations with the global community.
SPRK+, in conjunction with the Lightning Lab app, is designed to teach
foundational programming through STEAM activities. Both the robot and
app experience promote 21st century skills through the wonders of
robotics across all subject areas. The
Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts one million more
computer-science jobs than students by 2020 – making learning tools like
SPRK+ crucial to today’s curriculum. Today, Sphero’s SPRK products can
be found in more than 1,000 schools throughout the US and Canada,
reaching more than 300,000 students.
A year ago, Sphero went full STEAM ahead into the education realm with
the release of Sphero SPRK™ Edition. The new and improved SPRK+ takes
hands-on learning up a notch with updates including:
-
Tap To Connect: Equipped with Bluetooth SMART, the new tap-to-connect
feature increases the ease of use specifically for teachers in the
classroom. -
Scratch-Resistant Shell: An additional coating on the outside of the
ball makes for a more scratch-resistant exterior, while keeping the
integrity of the see-through shell.
Additional SPRK+ features include:
- Inductive charging
- Accelerometer and Gyroscope
- Shock resistant
- Programmable sensors
- Polycarbonate shell
- LED lights
- Waterproof
“If it’s a SPRK day, it’s without a doubt the best day of school for any
student. SPRK+ and Lightning Lab teach students valuable skills for the
future under the disguise of play,” said David Millage, General Manager
of Education at Sphero. “Learning is evolving and we are seeing a
transition from consumption to creation in the classroom. Our robots are
being used to teach everything from art to physics in a fun and hands-on
way that engage students on a new level.”
Additionally, a new and improved version of the SPRK Lightning Lab app
is available for smart devices and desktop browsers. Featuring over 150
new hands-on learning activities and an improved programming canvas,
coding SPRK+ robots is easier and more rewarding than ever. Programmable
sensors and sounds bring a fun new dimension to coding, and a news feed
feature will highlight trending content, comments and contributions.
These improvements make Lightning Lab a more streamlined experience
between mobile and desktop, as well as becoming an even easier social
learning platform for anyone to enjoy.
SPRK+ is now available on www.sphero.com
for $129 USD. For a full list of retailers, please visit: http://www.sphero.com/retail-partners.
The Lightning Lab app is free and is available for download for iOS
devices, Android phones and tablets, and Amazon Fire devices.
For additional assets please visit brandfolder.com/sprkplus.
About Sphero
Based in Boulder, CO, Sphero fuses physical,
digital, and entertainment experiences to unlock the true potential of
play and inspire tomorrow’s creators. Sphero was founded by Ian
Bernstein and Adam Wilson after completing Boulder Techstars in 2010.
We’re now available in 80+ countries around the globe and have sold more
than one million robots to date… and counting. We’re here to rattle
cages, ruffle feathers, and reinvent entertainment… all for the sake
of inspiration and creation. It’s time to defy convention and change the
way the world thinks about play.
Sphero, the Sphero logo, SPRK, SPRK + and Lightning Lab are trademarks
of Sphero. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their
respective owners.
Contacts
Sphero
Claire Tindall, 719-964-5865
Claire@sphero.com
