Abii vs Backroom

ABii is a desktop-size robot with an accompanying web app that can be utilized with any wifi-enabled device.

ABii is next-generation, educational technology. ABii engages children with fun, social interactions and effectively delivers core subject instruction to change the academic trajectory for kids in grades K-5. ABii gives parents a powerful tool for supporting and advancing school performance. We developed ABii the robot tutor because we believe it’s time we invest more into our children’s future.

Location: Columbia, United States

Content messenger where friends can chat privately over things they read and watch

A content messenger for friends to share and chat privately over articles, videos, tweets, or any media. Currently, these private conversations are spread out across emails, text messengers or other platforms which also provide a private message feature (e.g. Twitter DM). Backroom makes it easy to both share and consume relevant information in a private space - whether it’s a static content (an article) or a live stream (an NBA game).

We want to build a communication solution which is content-native. What we mean by that: It understands if it’s a tweet, or a live stream and makes conversations richer and more engaging. We do not undermine what machines can recommend us, but we think if the “seed” can be created by people who know us, machines can use this “seed” and do a better job of recommendation.