It wouldn’t be a CES without something unusual. Ideally, it would be robotic and incredibly useful. So how about a robotic lawnmower? I had two key questions: how much is it, and does it really work as expected?
The first question is easier to answer than the second question. It’s quite expensive when compared with a traditional lawnmower. WORX has two models of its Landroid robotic mower. The Landroid L ($1,299.99) mows lawns up to 1/2 acre, and the Landroid M ($999.99) mows lawns with 1/4 acre coverage.
There are also some pricey add-ons. The Landroid Garage ($139.99) is like a carport that provides an extra layer of overhead protection against the elements; whether it’s heavy rain, wind, or extreme temperatures. There’s an Anti-Collision System (ACS) with an ultrasonic detection sensor ($249.99) to avoid foreseen and unforeseen yard hazards and collisions.
A “Find My Landroid” accessory ($349.99) utilizes GPS tracking through one free year of cellular connectivity to locate, monitor, and communicate with your Landroid. An “Off Limits Digital Fence” option ($129.99) creates no-mow zones without using the original boundary wire.
And new in 2020 is the Radio Link Accessory ($149.99). This module extends the Wi-Fi connection from the house by up to 500 yards. It is recommended when the yard has multiple trees or other objects that may create transmission interference.
How well do these WORX products work? According to the company, “the Landroid’s patented AIA (Artificial Intelligence Algorithm) technology gives the Landroid problem solving capabilities that allow it to cut the lawn more efficiently and to better navigate through narrow passageways compared to other robotic mowers.”
You use the included phone app to program the lawnmower to cut your lawn at any time of the day or night, for as little or as often as needed. The Landroid automatically returns to the charging station when the battery needs to be charged. It even knows when to come in from the rain. And the user can program when the mowing will resume, based on the duration of the rain. Updates to the Landlord’s firmware can be uploaded automatically via Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity.
Other key features include multi-zone programming, which allows users to set up separate lawn cutting zones, such as front and back yards, tiered locations, and berms. Homeowners can also set up a security pin number code to lock out Landroid’s operation. In the event the mower is stolen, only the correct pin number will enable the mower to re-start.
Built-in safety sensors stop the Landroid blades when the mower is lifted or tipped. The sensors will also reverse the Landroid when it makes contact with a person, pet, or object.
