Amazon unveils 'Jetsons'-like roaming robot for the home

Amazon's Astro doesn't cook or clean like the animated character from "The Jetsons," but it can check if you left the stove on while you're out or send an alert if someone enters the house it doesn't recognize.

Amazon's version, called Astro, doesn't cook or clean like the animated character from "The Jetsons," but it can check if you left the stove on while you're out or send an alert if someone enters the house it doesn't recognize.

It uses cameras, sensors and artificial technology to avoid walls or dogs, and Amazon said Astro -- which also happens to be the name of the Jetson's dog -- will only get smarter as time goes on. It does do some housework: Snacks or a can of soda can be placed on its back to be carted to someone across the house.

The $1,000 robot, which will be sent out to customers later this year, was one of a slew of gadgets Amazon unveiled Tuesday as part of its annual event ahead of the holidays.

Astro, however, stole the show. Amazon executive David Limp asked the 17-inch (43-centimeter) tall robot to come on stage during the virtual event, then asked it to beatbox. Its round digital eyes close or widen as it does tasks, giving it a human-like touch.