Samsung has announced that its Ballie AI robot, first introduced at CES five years ago, will finally be available to consumers in 2025. The company made the announcement at its First Look event during CES, showcasing the robot's capabilities in a controlled demo.

Ballie has undergone a redesign since its initial debut, and it appears to have gained more practical features. The robot can interact with users through voice commands and projected virtual buttons on the floor. It also boasts visual AI powers, demonstrated by its ability to analyze a pair of wine bottles and suggest a suitable pairing for dinner.

During the demo, Ballie was able to respond to queries within a couple of seconds without any hiccups. However, it's unclear whether the robot had pre-programmed answers or was actually processing the information in real-time. The demo also showed Ballie's ability to control smart home devices, such as lights and routines.

One of the most impressive features of Ballie is its ability to adapt to its surroundings. When asked to display information about a nearby attraction, The Sphere, Ballie initially projected the image onto the ground. However, when more details and driving directions were requested, the robot automatically turned around and beamed the image onto a nearby wall, showcasing its ability to use the available space effectively.

Ballie's projection capabilities are adequate, but not exceptional. The image quality wasn't particularly bright, and the built-in speakers, while loud, didn't sound tinny. The robot's portability and wheels make it a unique offering in the projector market.

Samsung has confirmed that Ballie will be released in 2025, with some outlets reporting a more specific "first half of 2025" timeframe. The company has not disclosed pricing information, leaving many to wonder how much they'll need to pay for the robot.

The release of Ballie marks a significant milestone for Samsung, which has been showcasing the robot's capabilities at CES for years. While it's unclear how well the robot will perform in real-world scenarios, its features and capabilities make it an intriguing addition to the smart home ecosystem.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, the release of Ballie raises questions about the future of AI-powered robots in the home. Will Ballie be a game-changer, or will it ultimately be relegated to novelty status? Only time will tell.