Adam Falk of Mashable introduces the Brewbot (from Cargo on Kickstarter) in this video on or about Sept. 25, 2013. It's called "the smart brewing appliance" - and its operation is of course based on smartphone technology. One might actually call it one's home brewery - but it appears to be much less complex than the standard home brew system/s. As it is a Kickstarter project the Cargo group needs your funding. But it looks like it's in full ferment as it is close to one-third of its funding in four days.
There are probably two important questions to those interested locally. One - Cargo does have a plan to produce the Brewbot in the U. S.. Two - the cost/pledge for a basic Brewbot looks pricey at 1,700 British pounds (currently about $2730!). There is space left for seven "Early Bird" pledges at 1,500 British pounds (now about $2400+). The Examiner cannot guarantee the prices, delivery or estimated delivery dates for the Brewbot. Lower scale price pledges are, however, available.
It may be that the basic and Early Bird pledge rates would be of more interest for brew clubs and other professional organizations. Other questions arise - will Brewbot be able to meet local and global regulations? For the truly interested please see the "Risks and Challenges" section and the FAQs. Again the link to the Kickstarter Brewbot page is: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cargo/brewbot-the-smart-brewing-appl.... To avoid most fiascoes, accountability is an important element on Kickstarter.
According to the gentlemen at Cargo the Brewbot home brew system is supported by Bluetooth LE - iPhone 4S and 5. An Android (and other platforms?) will have to be developed later. The whole (finished?) design is handsome and rather simple being made of wood and stainless steel. Stainless steel sealed tubs are meaningful if you have ever brewed your own "skunk beer". But that means it will be a heavy contraption with a total weight of about 220 pounds! Mashable and Cargo do point out that the app is needed for recipes - and you can add your own or adjust the existing recipes to personal taste. Check out the current Brewbot operation in this full-length demo video. Legal disclaimer: remember to follow the Michigan liquor control codes when brewing and imbibing! Also check TTB.gov Sec. 25.205.
