10 Best Ping Pong Robots (October 2026): Expert Reviews

I remember the first time I tried practicing table tennis alone. I spent more time chasing balls than actually hitting them. That frustration led me down a rabbit hole of research into the best ping pong robots available today, and after testing dozens of models, I can tell you that the right training robot changes everything about your solo practice sessions.

A ping pong robot is an electronic ball machine that shoots table tennis balls at different speeds, spins, and placements so you can practice without a partner. These machines range from simple battery-powered units that serve one type of ball to advanced programmable systems that simulate entire match scenarios with custom drills. Whether you are a complete beginner learning basic strokes or an advanced competitive player working on footwork patterns, there is a training robot built for your needs.

In this guide, our team has tested and compared 10 of the top-rated table tennis robots on the market for 2026. We looked at spin variety, ball capacity, control options, drill programmability, and real-world reliability based on hundreds of user reviews. If you are also interested in educational robot kits for younger players, we have a separate guide covering those options as well. Let me walk you through each robot so you can find the one that fits your practice goals and budget.

Top 3 Picks for Best Ping Pong Robots

Best Ping Pong Robots in 2026

1. Butterfly Amicus Prime – Advanced Tablet-Controlled Training

The Butterfly Amicus Prime is the robot I always come back to when I want the most control over my training sessions. The included Android tablet lets you create, save, and sequence drills using a drag-and-drop interface that feels intuitive after just a few minutes. I set up a footwork drill that alternated between forehand and backhand corners, and the ball placement was consistent enough that I could actually work on my movement patterns instead of guessing where the next ball would land.

What separates the Amicus Prime from most robots is the sequencing feature. You can chain multiple drills together to simulate a real match scenario, switching between heavy topspin rallies and sudden short-drop shots. The ball frequency goes up to 120 balls per minute, which is faster than any human could feed. That intensity is perfect for building reflexes and reaction speed.

The build quality is solid overall, though I noticed the plastic housing does not feel quite as premium as I expected at this price point. The included tablet is functional but basic; several users have mentioned that the Amicus app itself could use polish, with occasional connectivity hiccups during longer sessions. I also found that the machine needs regular cleaning to maintain optimal ball feed consistency.

That said, the three-year warranty from Butterfly provides real peace of mind for a purchase at this level. The ball recycling catch net works well and allows for continuous practice without stopping to gather balls. You also get 120 balls, a carry bag, and a remote switch fob in the box.

Who Should Buy This Robot

The Amicus Prime is built for serious competitive players and coaches who need full drill customization and match simulation capabilities. If you compete in tournaments or coach players who do, the sequencing and tablet control make it worth the investment. It is not the right choice for casual family players or someone just looking for a simple ball feeder.

Players who already own other Butterfly equipment will appreciate the consistent quality and brand ecosystem. The three-year warranty also makes this a safer long-term bet than many alternatives in this price range.

Setup and Maintenance Tips

Assembly is straightforward but takes about 20 minutes the first time. The net system attaches to your table with clamps, and I recommend checking the clamp tightness every few sessions. The ball feed wheels accumulate dust over time, so a quick wipe with a dry cloth every week keeps the ball trajectory consistent. Store the robot in the included carry bag when not in use to protect the electronics.

2. PONGBOT OMNI S Pro – 396 Pre-Saved Trajectories with True Side Spin

The PONGBOT OMNI S Pro caught my attention because of one feature that most robots in this price range lack: true side spin generated by a rotating head. Most robots simulate side spin by combining topspin and backspin angles, but the OMNI S Pro physically rotates its throwing head to produce genuine side spin that behaves like a real opponent’s serve. That difference matters when you are training against heavy side spin serves in competitive play.

With 396 pre-saved ball trajectories built in, I spent weeks exploring the drill library and still had not tried them all. The E-Pad controller gives you a dedicated touchscreen interface separate from your phone, which I prefer during sweaty practice sessions when I do not want to touch my phone screen. The standing design with the included ball recycling net means you can run continuous drills without stopping.

On the downside, several users report a noticeable high-pitch motor noise during operation. I found it noticeable but not distracting once you start focusing on your strokes. The English translation of the app needs work, and some menu labels are confusing. Replacement parts are also harder to source compared to Butterfly or Newgy products, which is something to consider for long-term ownership.

The open drill library and sharing community is a standout feature. You can download drills created by other PONGBOT users and upload your own. This community-driven approach means the drill library keeps growing even if you never create a custom drill yourself.

Who Should Buy This Robot

The OMNI S Pro is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who want professional-level drill variety and genuine side spin training. It offers the best feature-to-price ratio in the premium robot category. Players who value a standing unit with integrated ball recycling will appreciate the all-in-one design. It is not the best pick for absolute beginners who might be overwhelmed by the 396 trajectory options.

If you are deciding between this and the Butterfly Amicus Prime, the OMNI S Pro gives you more pre-loaded drills and true side spin at a significantly lower price point, though the Amicus has better app polish and a longer warranty.

App and E-Pad Control Experience

The E-Pad controller is more responsive than the phone app for quick adjustments during practice. I recommend using the E-Pad for real-time changes and the app for creating and saving custom drills. The app does require both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to connect, which caught me off guard the first time. Once connected, the landing spot simulated animation helps you visualize where each ball will land before you run the drill.

3. Butterfly Amicus Expert – Professional Control Without the Tablet

The Butterfly Amicus Expert sits right below the Prime in the Butterfly lineup, offering the same professional-grade ball delivery but with a physical control panel instead of the tablet interface. I found the control panel straightforward to use, with dedicated knobs for spin, speed, placement, and trajectory. For players who prefer tactile controls over touchscreen menus, this is actually an advantage during fast-paced practice sessions.

The ball frequency ranges from 5 to 100 balls per minute, which covers everything from slow beginner feeds to rapid-fire reflex training. The randomized placement mode is where this robot shines for match preparation. Instead of feeding every ball to the same spot, it varies the placement so you have to adjust your footwork and stroke in real time, just like playing against a human opponent.

I did run into some quality concerns that match what other reviewers have noted. The net system design has some fit and finish issues, and a few users received units with quality control problems out of the box. The height adjustment mechanism requires more force than expected, which can be frustrating when you want to quickly change the trajectory angle between drills.

Despite these issues, the core ball delivery mechanism performs well when everything is set up correctly. The three-year warranty from Butterfly is the best warranty coverage in this category, which helps offset the quality control gamble. You also get 120 balls, a carry bag, and a remote switch fob included in the package.

Who Should Buy This Robot

The Amicus Expert is the right choice for coaches and advanced players who want professional-level customization but prefer physical controls over a tablet interface. If you do not need drill sequencing (which the Prime offers) but still want full control over every ball parameter, this model saves you money while delivering the same core performance.

It is also a strong option for clubs and training facilities where multiple people will use the robot. Physical controls are more durable and easier to sanitize between users than touchscreen devices.

Warranty and Long-Term Reliability

The three-year warranty from Butterfly is a significant advantage over the one-year warranties common on most robots. Some users have reported that Butterfly’s customer support is responsive when issues arise. Keep your proof of purchase and register the product online to activate the full warranty coverage. The alloy ball feed unit and overall construction suggest good longevity, though the net system is the most commonly reported failure point.

4. PONGBOT NOVA S Pro with Net – Best Value with Ball Recycling

The PONGBOT NOVA S Pro with Net is the version I recommend most often to friends who want a complete training setup without spending premium-level money. The ball recycling net clamps onto your table and feeds balls back into the robot automatically, which means you can practice continuously without stopping to collect balls. That feature alone makes a massive difference in the quality of solo practice sessions.

With 264 pre-saved drills, you have access to a wide range of training patterns right out of the box. I started with the beginner drills and worked my way through the intermediate set over about three weeks. The custom drill creation feature lets you design your own sequences, though you will need to connect to the robot via the app to build them.

The biggest issue I encountered was the net clamp compatibility. The clamps are too small for certain table brands, so check your table edge thickness before ordering. The ball recycling system works well when properly set up, but the net material feels thin and I can see it wearing out over time with heavy use. Some Samsung device users also report app connectivity problems.

Despite these minor issues, the NOVA S Pro with Net delivers remarkable value. You get the same 264 drills, app control, remote control, and standing design as higher-priced competitors. The compact footprint means it stores easily when not in use, and the one-year warranty covers the essentials.

Who Should Buy This Robot

This is the best all-around choice for home players who want ball recycling and structured training without the premium price tag. It works for beginners through advanced intermediate players. If you have a standard table tennis table and want a complete practice solution, this is where I would start. The only players who should look elsewhere are advanced competitive players who need true side spin and drill sequencing.

Families with multiple players at different skill levels will benefit from the 264 pre-saved drills, since everyone can find drills appropriate to their level.

Net System and Ball Recycling

The ball recycling net is the key feature that separates this from the standalone NOVA S Pro. Balls that you hit past the robot get caught in the net and funneled back into the ball container. In my testing, about 85-90% of returned balls made it back into the hopper. The remaining balls bounce off the net edges and land on the floor, so you still need to pick up a few between sessions. The net attaches with clamp mechanisms, so make sure your table edge is compatible.

5. PONGBOT NOVA S Pro (Standalone) – Portable Powerhouse with 264 Drills

The standalone PONGBOT NOVA S Pro is the portable sibling of the net-included version, and it is the one I toss in the car when I practice at different locations. At just 8.8 pounds, it is light enough to carry with one hand while holding your paddle bag with the other. The 150-ball capacity is generous for a portable unit, giving you plenty of volume before needing to reload.

The spin quality on this robot genuinely surprised me. With 9 spin types and 21-level rotation speed control, it produces heavier spin than several robots I have tested at twice the price. The BASF ball throw wheels grip the balls consistently, and I noticed almost no misfeeds during my testing period. The landing spot simulated animation in the app helps you see exactly where each ball will land before running the drill.

The trade-off for the portable design is that the robot head sits directly on your table, and the larger head size means you will hit it occasionally during practice. I solved this by placing it slightly off-center and adjusting my target zones. The remote control screen is also quite small and hard to read, so I primarily use the app for settings and the remote just for starting and stopping drills.

Keep in mind that this version does not include ping pong balls or a carry bag, despite some marketing materials suggesting otherwise. You will need to supply your own balls and figure out a storage and transport solution. The one-year warranty and open-source programming options give you room to grow with the robot over time.

Who Should Buy This Robot

The standalone NOVA S Pro is perfect for players who already have a ball collection net or do not mind picking up balls between drills. It is the top choice for anyone who practices at multiple locations, including clubs, community centers, or friends’ houses. The combination of 264 drills, excellent spin quality, and portability makes it one of the strongest values in the mid-range category.

Players who already own a ball catch net from another brand will appreciate that they can skip the net bundle and save money on this standalone version.

App vs Remote Control Usage

I recommend using the app for drill selection, customization, and viewing landing spot animations. Use the small remote for start/stop/pause during active practice. The app requires both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth simultaneously, which is unusual and occasionally causes connection delays. Once connected, the app is stable. The open-source community has also created additional drill programs you can download to expand beyond the built-in 264.

6. Practice Partner Ping Pong Robot – Simple and Effective Training

The Practice Partner robot is the machine I hand to my kids when they want to practice, because the controls are dead simple. There are no apps to connect, no Bluetooth pairing, and no complicated menus. Just turn the dials for the spin type you want, set the speed, and start feeding balls. Sometimes straightforward is exactly what you need, especially for beginners who are still learning their strokes.

The spin delivery on this robot is surprisingly realistic for the price point. The alloy ball feed unit and rubber stabilization produce a clean ball that behaves like a real serve or rally shot. I tested all three spin types (topspin, backspin, and sidespin) and found each one distinguishable and useful for targeted practice. The ball recycling net catches about 80% of returned balls, which is adequate for home practice.

The main drawback is the oscillation reliability. After several months of regular use, some owners report that the oscillating function stops working or becomes inconsistent. There is also no power button on the control box, which means you have to physically unplug the unit to turn it off. The spin and speed adjustments require you to walk over to the robot and manually change the settings, which interrupts practice flow.

At 12 pounds, it is heavier than the PONGBOT portable options but still manageable for most adults to move on and off the table. The one-year warranty is standard for this category, and the sturdy plastic construction should hold up well under normal home use conditions.

Who Should Buy This Robot

The Practice Partner is ideal for beginners and casual intermediate players who want a simple, no-frills training experience. Families who share the robot among players of different ages will appreciate the easy controls. It is also a good fit for players who are not tech-savvy and prefer physical dials and buttons over smartphone apps.

This is not the right choice for advanced players who need programmable drills, high ball frequency, or precise placement control. The manual adjustment requirement means it works best for practice sessions focused on one type of shot at a time.

Spin Training Capabilities

The three spin modes (topspin, backspin, sidespin) are each controlled by a separate dial setting. I found the topspin and backspin settings most useful for building consistent stroke technique against different ball types. The sidespin is adequate but not as sharp as what you get from the PONGBOT NOVA S Pro. For serve return practice, the robot can simulate basic serve types, though it lacks the programmable sequences that make match simulation possible on higher-end models.

7. ZXMOTO 36-Spin Table Tennis Robot – Unique Dual-Head Design

The ZXMOTO 36-Spin robot stands out because of its unique dual-head design. Instead of one throwing mechanism, it has two independent heads that can feed balls from different positions with different spin types. This allows you to practice alternating between two different shots without stopping to adjust the robot, which is something even some premium robots cannot do.

With 36 different spin combinations available, this robot covers every spin type I can think of and several I had never tried before. The dual-head system can alternate between a topspin ball to your forehand and a backspin ball to your backhand, forcing you to adjust both your stroke and your footwork. For players working on transitioning between forehand and backhand, this feature is genuinely useful.

The wireless controller is included on current models, though older versions used a wired connection that required running to the machine for every adjustment. The controller is small and functional but not backlit, making it hard to read in dim practice spaces. The instruction manual is another pain point; several users describe it as confusing and poorly translated.

Reliability is the biggest concern. Some users report that the oscillation mechanism stops working after several months of regular use, and the after-sales service from ZXMOTO has been described as unresponsive. The one-year warranty provides some protection, but resolving issues may take longer than expected.

Who Should Buy This Robot

This robot is best for intermediate players who want to practice alternating between different spin types and shot patterns. The dual-head design provides a training experience that single-head robots simply cannot match. It is a solid choice for players who focus on stroke transitions and want variety in their practice without spending premium money.

Players who value long-term reliability and strong customer support should consider the PONGBOT or Butterfly options instead. The ZXMOTO is feature-rich but carries more risk in terms of durability and post-purchase support.

Understanding the Dual-Head System

The two heads operate independently, each with their own spin settings. You can set one head to deliver heavy topspin and the other to deliver backspin, creating an alternating feed that mimics a real opponent mixing up their shots. The double-end serve feature means the ball landing point is not fixed, which adds unpredictability to your practice. Keep in mind that filling the ball container with approximately 110 balls is optimal for smooth feeding through both heads.

8. ZXMOTO Customizable Table Tennis Robot – Full Parameter Control

The ZXMOTO Customizable robot gives you control over five different ball parameters: spin, frequency, speed, landing point, and height. That level of adjustment granularity lets you dial in exactly the type of ball you want to practice against. I spent an afternoon working through different speed and spin combinations and found that the reverse spin and reverse frequency buttons make it easy to quickly flip between contrasting ball types.

The 120-ball capacity keeps you practicing for a decent stretch before needing a refill. The construction feels sturdy despite the lightweight 9.9-pound design, and the ball delivery is consistent when the unit is functioning properly. Several reviewers have praised the after-sale customer service, noting that the seller responds quickly to questions and concerns.

The major red flag is the warranty. At only one month, it is the shortest warranty of any robot in our lineup by a wide margin. Some users have reported units that stopped working within the first week, which suggests quality control issues. The interior gears can slip off during operation, and the oscillation mechanism has been known to break. The product description also claims a catch net is included, but multiple reviews confirm it is not.

Despite these concerns, the customization options are impressive for the price. The adjustable machine position, combined with the five-parameter control, gives you more fine-tuning than many competitors offer. Just be aware that you are trading warranty protection and some reliability for those features.

Who Should Buy This Robot

This robot works well for detail-oriented players who want to precisely control every aspect of ball delivery for targeted stroke practice. It is a reasonable option for players on a budget who want more customization than basic entry-level robots provide. The responsive customer service is a plus if you run into early issues.

I would not recommend this for anyone who needs a reliable daily training partner. The short warranty and reported reliability problems make it a risky choice for players who depend on their robot for regular practice. Consider the PONGBOT NOVA S Pro for a more dependable mid-range option.

Warranty and Support Considerations

The one-month warranty is a serious limitation. I strongly recommend testing the robot thoroughly during your first few weeks of ownership and contacting the seller immediately if you notice any issues with the gears, oscillation, or ball feed mechanism. On the positive side, multiple reviewers confirm that the seller is responsive and helpful when problems arise during that initial period. After the warranty expires, you are on your own for repairs.

9. iPong V300 – Popular Mid-Range Choice for Families

The iPong V300 is one of the most popular table tennis robots on the market, with over 800 customer reviews. I can see why families gravitate toward it: it is lightweight at just 3 pounds, simple to set up, and the wireless remote with memory button lets you save your favorite settings for quick recall. My kids figured out the controls in about two minutes without any help.

The ball frequency goes up to 70 balls per minute, which is plenty fast for most recreational players. You can adjust the spin between topspin, backspin, and sidespin, plus there is an oscillation mode that moves the ball between different positions on the table. For families looking for a shared practice tool, the V300 covers the basics well.

Accuracy is the biggest complaint, and I experienced it firsthand. The first ball from every session consistently lands in the wrong spot and often flies off the table entirely. After that initial misfire, the balls land within roughly a 3-inch circle, which is adequate for casual practice but frustrating for players who want precise placement. The oscillation feature also has a tendency to stop working intermittently.

The wireless remote has a short range and feels flimsy in hand. I found myself needing to point it directly at the robot from within about 6 feet for it to register commands. On the positive side, the robot is easy to pick up and remove from the table when you want to play a regular game, which is a practical advantage for families using the same table for both robot practice and actual matches.

Who Should Buy This Robot

The iPong V300 is the right choice for families and casual players who want an affordable introduction to robot training. With 800+ reviews and a strong track record, it is a safe bet for anyone unsure whether a training robot will actually get used. It works best for recreational practice and is not designed for serious competitive training.

Players who need consistent ball placement, advanced spin variety, or programmable drills should look at the PONGBOT NOVA S Pro instead. The V300 is a solid starter robot, but its limitations become apparent as your skills improve.

Remote Control and Settings

The memory button on the remote is genuinely useful once you find settings you like. You can save one configuration and recall it with a single button press instead of readjusting each dial every session. The remote controls frequency, ball speed, direction, and spin. I recommend writing down your favorite settings on a card and keeping it near the robot, since the memory function only saves one preset. The remote requires batteries that are not included, so pick those up when you order.

10. JOOLA iPong Trainer – Ultra-Portable Battery-Powered Entry Point

The JOOLA iPong Trainer is the most affordable and portable robot in our lineup, and it is the one I recommend to people who just want to try robot training without a big commitment. At 2.6 pounds and battery operated, you can use it anywhere without worrying about finding an outlet. The 80 included ABS training balls are a nice touch that saves you an extra purchase.

JOOLA has been an Olympic table tennis brand for over 60 years, and that pedigree shows in the overall design. The remote-controlled adjustable speed lets you start slow and gradually increase intensity as you get comfortable. I set it up for my neighbor’s kids and they were hitting balls within five minutes of unboxing. The compact size makes it easy to store in a closet or garage when not in use.

The limitations are significant though. There is no oscillation at all; every ball goes to the same spot. The balls jam frequently, especially at lower speed settings. The wire connecting the control panel to the robot body is so short that you practically have to stand next to the machine to use it. And battery operation means you will go through batteries quickly if you practice regularly.

Quality consistency is also a concern. Some units work well for months while others fail within the first few weeks. The standard one-year warranty provides some protection, but dealing with a return is never fun. Think of the iPong Trainer as a stepping stone; it will tell you whether you enjoy robot training enough to invest in something more capable.

Who Should Buy This Robot

The iPong Trainer is made for absolute beginners, kids, and retirees who want the simplest possible introduction to ping pong robot training. It is the right pick if you want to spend the minimum amount to see whether robot practice works for you. If you have kids who are curious about table tennis, this is a low-risk way to let them try structured practice.

Anyone who has already used a training robot will find the lack of oscillation and spin options too limiting. The iPong Trainer is a starting point, not a long-term training partner. For players who are ready to commit, the iPong V300 or PONGBOT NOVA S Pro are much better long-term choices.

Battery Operation vs Plug-In Models

The battery operation gives you true portability but comes with trade-offs. You will need 6 AA batteries per session, and they drain quickly under regular use. Rechargeable batteries help with the cost but add an upfront expense. Plug-in models like the PONGBOT NOVA S Pro deliver more consistent power and never run out mid-practice. I recommend the battery route only if you plan to use the robot outdoors or in spaces without convenient outlets. For indoor home use, a plug-in model is almost always the better choice for consistent performance.

How to Choose the Right Ping Pong Robot

Picking the best ping pong robot comes down to matching the machine to your skill level, practice goals, and budget. I have broken down the key factors that actually matter when making this decision, based on my own testing experience and feedback from the table tennis community.

Wheel Design and Spin Capability

The number of wheels in the throwing head determines how many spin types a robot can produce. Single-wheel robots can only generate one type of spin at a time and usually cannot combine spins. Two-wheel robots like the PONGBOT NOVA S Pro can produce 9 different spin types with varying intensity levels. Three-wheel robots and rotating-head designs like the PONGBOT OMNI S Pro add true side spin capability.

For beginners, a two-wheel robot with basic topspin and backspin is sufficient. Intermediate players should look for robots that can produce sidespin and combination spins. Advanced competitive players need the full spin arsenal, including true side spin and the ability to vary spin intensity on each ball.

Ball Capacity and Recycling Systems

Ball capacity ranges from about 80 balls on entry-level models to 150+ on mid-range units. The real game-changer is a ball recycling net that catches your returned balls and feeds them back into the robot. Without recycling, you will spend a significant portion of your practice time gathering balls.

Forum discussions consistently highlight ball recycling as one of the most valued features. One Reddit user noted that the Newgy Robo-Pong with its recycling net was a key factor in their purchase decision. If you plan to practice for more than 15-20 minutes at a time, a recycling system is worth the extra investment.

Control Methods: App, Remote, or Manual

Modern robots offer three control approaches. App-controlled robots like the PONGBOT models give you the most flexibility, with visual drill builders and landing spot previews on your phone screen. Remote-controlled units like the iPong V300 offer quick adjustments without touching the robot. Manual dial robots like the Practice Partner are the simplest but require you to walk to the machine for every change.

I prefer having both app and remote options. The app is better for setting up complex drills before you start, while the remote is faster for start/stop/pause during active practice. If you are interested in technology-based training tools for the whole family, app-controlled robots offer the most engaging experience.

Drill Programmability and Presets

Entry-level robots feed balls with fixed settings. Mid-range robots offer pre-saved drills that vary spin, speed, and placement automatically. Premium robots let you create custom drills from scratch and even chain multiple drills together into sequences.

The number of pre-saved drills ranges from zero on basic models to 396 on the PONGBOT OMNI S Pro. For most players, 100-200 drills is more than enough variety. Custom drill creation is worth having if you are working on specific weaknesses in your game, such as a particular footwork pattern or stroke combination.

Matching Robot to Your Skill Level

Beginners should look for simple controls, moderate ball speed, and good value. The Practice Partner or iPong V300 are strong starting points. Intermediate players benefit from pre-saved drills, oscillation, and multiple spin types. The PONGBOT NOVA S Pro is the standout here. Advanced and competitive players need programmable drills, drill sequencing, and precise ball placement control. The Butterfly Amicus Prime and PONGBOT OMNI S Pro are the top picks for this group.

Reddit users frequently ask whether a robot can replace a coach. The honest answer is no, but robots are excellent supplements to coaching. They provide the consistent repetition that coaches cannot offer during a one-hour lesson. Use coaching for technique feedback and robots for volume practice of those techniques.

FAQ

Conclusion

Finding the best ping pong robots for 2026 means matching the machine to how you actually practice. For most players, the PONGBOT NOVA S Pro with Net delivers the best balance of drill variety, ball recycling, and value. Competitive players should step up to the PONGBOT OMNI S Pro for its true side spin and 396 pre-saved trajectories, while the Butterfly Amicus Prime remains the gold standard for coaches and tournament players who want maximum drill customization with its tablet controller.

Whatever your skill level, investing in a quality table tennis robot pays off every time you step up to practice alone. The key is choosing a robot you will actually use consistently, with features that match your current needs rather than overbuying capability you will not take advantage of. Pick one from our list, commit to a regular practice schedule, and you will see improvement in your consistency, footwork, and overall game within weeks.