Image source: Sphero. Original Sphero BOLT, the LED-matrix model, shown alone in its maker product image. This is not BOLT+. US-oriented source; the image does not establish current worldwide availability or included accessories. Image source (opens in a new tab)
BOLT includes infrared robot-to-robot communication, a magnetometer and an inductive charging base. Sphero’s product page describes Draw, Blocks and Text programming, including JavaScript and Python. Start with something concrete, such as drawing a route or making a light pattern, then check that the intended editor runs with original BOLT on your device.1
Sphero's published native-app minimums include iOS 15, Android 8 and macOS 12, with Bluetooth 4.0 or later. Browser connections use supported desktop systems with Chrome or Edge; phones and tablets use native apps. Check the device’s Bluetooth and account restrictions as well as its operating-system version, especially on a school-managed computer or a child profile.34
Quick Start provides core programming without an account. Central accounts add cloud storage and parent or teacher management. Native apps offer an offline programming route, while the web app needs internet access and can lose browser-local programs if local storage is cleared. Decide where a child’s saved work should live before starting a longer project.54
On October 26, 2026, Sphero’s US-oriented listing showed original BOLT, SKU K002ROWFFP, at USD 179. A retailer separately labeled it discontinued. Those pages describe different sales channels, so confirm stock and support with the seller of the actual unit rather than assuming either label applies everywhere.17Reported
Battery condition is particularly important on a used BOLT: its sealed battery is not intended for user replacement. Sphero recommends deep sleep for storage and advises against leaving round robots stored on a powered charger. Ask to see the robot charge, connect and run a program, so the purchase decision goes beyond whether its lights turn on.65
Original BOLT listing: K002ROWFFP, 8 by 8 LED matrix, infrared communication, magnetometer and inductive charging. The USD179 observation is dated October 26, 2026. Product copy names JavaScript and Python, while some compatibility wording is narrower. Editor and device support should be checked together.Reported
Evidence checked: 2026-10-26
BOLT+ is the separately named successor with an LCD screen. Original BOLT has an LED matrix; use the specifications and projects for the model you own.
Evidence checked: 2026-10-26
The maker table gives 2018 as BOLT's release year. Minimum software and Bluetooth requirements have platform/profile exceptions. A listed minimum does not establish successful pairing or every editor feature.
Evidence checked: 2026-10-26
Sphero distinguishes desktop browser connections from mobile native apps. Native offline programming is not every cloud/account feature. Browser-local programs may be removed when local storage is cleared.
Evidence checked: 2026-10-26
Quick Start supports core programming without an account. Central adds cloud saving and parent/teacher functions; this is not a child-data compliance certification.
Evidence checked: 2026-10-26
Sphero’s battery guidance covers sealed round robots and distinguishes RVR’s replaceable battery. It recommends deep sleep for storage and warns against storage on a powered charger. No battery-life promise or repair procedure is inferred.
Evidence checked: 2026-10-26
Cytron labels its original BOLT listing discontinued. This is a retailer-specific account, retained alongside the maker listing; global retirement and service-end status remain unresolved.Reported
Evidence checked: 2026-10-26
