IFA: Mowing machine Anthbot R730 curves hedgehogs by thermal imaging and cuts edges with trimmer arm

At the IFA 2026 trade show, Anthbot unveiled a prototype of its new lawn-mowing robot, the R730, which features advanced thermal imaging technology to detect small animals such as hedgehogs and a trimmer arm designed to cut grass along garden edges. The device aims to improve safety for both users and wildlife by avoiding collisions with nocturnal or crepuscular creatures that might otherwise go unnoticed by standard cameras operating under low-light conditions. The R730 uses an infrared sensor to identify heat signatures in front of its path, allowing it to navigate safely around animals like hedgehogs. During the demonstration, the robot was shown passing by a dummy hedgehog, though the test did not fully showcase real-world performance. The thermal imaging capability is intended to complement traditional visual sensors, which can struggle in dim light. This feature is particularly useful for gardeners who prioritize animal protection and want to avoid daytime mowing restrictions. In addition to the thermal scanning system, the R730 includes a movable trimmer arm mounted at the rear. This arm extends outward to reach the edge of the lawn, trimming grass where other robots might leave uneven patches. During the demo, the arm remained extended throughout the circular route but retracted when the robot approached the simulated hedgehog. This design allows the R730 to maintain a clean lawn edge without requiring manual intervention. The robot’s mobility is enhanced by four independently driven wheels, two of which are steerable. This setup enables the R730 to handle complex terrain with slopes up to 84 percent. For navigation and obstacle detection, the robot employs lidar modules, a stereo camera, and a GNSS module that uses satellite coordinates to guide it. It receives correction data through integrated 4G connectivity, eliminating the need for an RTK ground antenna. The R730 is equipped with a 270 Wh battery and a fast-charging power supply, enabling it to mow between 3,000 and 4,000 square meters of lawn per day depending on settings. A spoiler at the back adds a sleek appearance while also serving a functional purpose. The robot is scheduled to launch in early spring at a price of approximately 2,500 euros. A more basic version, the R720, will also be available for 2,000 euros. It lacks the thermal imaging sensor and has a less powerful trimmer arm, offering lower coverage area. While the R730 represents a step forward in smart gardening technology, the R720 provides a more affordable option for consumers who may not require all the advanced features. Anthbot, a relatively unknown brand in Germany, is backed by the Chinese company LDRobot, which supplies sensor technology to other major robot manufacturers. The company plans to expand its product range under its own name, aiming to offer more end-user devices than previously possible. This strategy reflects a broader trend in the robotics industry, where specialized features tailored to specific applications are becoming increasingly common.