Despite the relative complexity of comic book tech and the industrial limitations of our time, the Iron Man armor has become the new standard in modern-day robotics. Robert Downey Jr.’s debut in 2008 as the Iron Avenger heralded a new era of automated mechanics, from lightweight EDF jetpacks to movable exoskeletons to 3D-printed prosthetics designed to look like Stark tech.
Now, UBTECH Robotics has teamed up with Marvel Studios to bring fans the latest in AR (augmented reality) technology: a humanoid robot with all the myriad functions of a real Iron Man suit.
Inspired by its Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame equivalent in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Iron Man MK50 -- a walking droid that can code, move and battle just like Tony Stark -- combines advanced robotics with augmented reality to deliver the most authentic Stark experience yet. The robot comes equipped with dynamic AR technology that can be remotely controlled by an app and personalized to suit every user’s needs and comic book fantasies. Using a mobile device, fans can record custom audio and upload their photos to Iron Man’s heads-up display, replacing Downey’s face with any one of ours — effectively taking over from Tony and living out every Avenger’s dream.
UBTECH’s advanced robotic technology introduces three different types of specialized programming: Mobile Command, Iron Guard and Custom Protocol.
Mobile Command lets users take control of Iron Man MK50’s motors, lights and sound, and to select specific phrases from a recognizable Tony's voice. Iron Guard offers customized patrol capabilities, utilizing cutting edge light sensor technology to detect movement and respond with audio and light reactions.
Custom Protocol, on the other hand, allows fans to code their own one-of-a-kind moves for the MK50 Robot, with or without any programming knowledge or pre-established engineering experience. The system makes use of block-based programming and a visual drag-and-drop editor to enable users to create simple Iron Man scripts of their own choosing.
The Iron Man MK50 was built in Los Angeles by UBTECH, a leading authority in humanoid robotics and artificial intelligence, and is officially licensed by Marvel Entertainment. John Rhee, senior vice president and general manager of UBTECH North America, said, “UBTECH is thrilled to collaborate with Marvel to bring the excitement around the Marvel Cinematic Universe to life in the real world with the Iron Man MK50 Robot. The Iron Man MK50 Robot provides an immersive, entertaining, and customizable experience that both casual and hardcore fans alike will find fun and familiar.”
The Iron Man MK50 Robot is currently priced at $289 on Amazon and ubtrobot.com. Avengers: Endgame hits theaters on April 26.