Pollen Robotics unveils Microduck, an open-source AI companion

Pollen Robotics opened preorders for the device at $399, offering colorways in cream, graphite, lavender, and sky blue. The company expects to begin shipping units before Christmas 2026. Despite its diminutive frame, the robot packs a Rockchip RK3566 processor, a camera, LiDAR, and motion sensors, allowing it to track laser pointers or respond to environmental stimuli. Users can also take manual control via a standard game controller.

The hardware distinguishes itself through personality rather than utility. Each unit generates a unique vocal identity upon its first activation, producing creature-like sounds that remain consistent for the robot’s lifespan. Because the software remains open-source, owners can modify the code to teach the biped new behaviors, mirroring the community-driven approach established by the previous Reachy Mini project.