This robot suitcase follows you around and answers voice commands

Lugging around your suitcase is the least fun part of travelling. What if your suitcase could follow you around on its own? Yes, now its possible.

A San Francisco-based company, Travelmate Robotics, has created the first "true fully autonomous suitcase." First introduced last year via crowdfunding Indiegogo campaign, the company will start shipping the robot suitcases in June.



With the smartphone as its command center, the suitcase employs artificial intelligence and a range of sensors to follow you while it avoids obstacles in its path.  The suitcase moves both standing and flat on its side with a maximum speed of 6.75 miles per hour. It uses ultra-sensitive "omni" wheels to steer sharp turns.

The robot suitcase also responds to voice commands and basic hand gestures. What’s more, the suitcase boasts digital weight system, device-charging capabilities and also locks and unlocks with a finger print.



The suitcase has a battery life of 4 hours in fully independent mode and includes a GPS chip which can be used to track its location in case of theft.

According to Travelmate, the hands-free suitcase is only the beginning, the company eventually wants to build the product into a travel butler.  The suitcases are now available to order; priced $399, $495, and $595 for small, medium and large size respectively.

This article originally appeared on cntraveler