Analysis:
Quadruped robots have historically been relegated to research labs. The high prices, combined with challenges in agility, control, power consumption and stability, often make them less reliable and desirable than wheeled mobile robots. Boston Dynamics is hoping to change that and kick-start the commercial quadruped market with the limited release of Spot.

This is not only an important measuring stick for quadruped robots as a technology, but it is also a crucial test for Boston Dynamics’ goals of solving the hard problems in robotics. These efforts have led to major new functionality, as the company focuses on developing robots for real-world applications. - Steve Crowe