Apple Inc. is poised to venture into the home robotics sector with plans for an interactive tabletop robot display set to launch in 2027. This initiative reflects the company’s renewed focus on artificial intelligence (AI) as it seeks to reclaim its position as an industry innovator.
According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, sources familiar with the matter indicate that the tabletop robot is envisioned to serve as a virtual companion, forming a core part of Apple’s broader AI strategy. Other innovations in development reportedly include a smart speaker with a display and a wheeled humanoid robot for the future.
The concept of an interactive robot was first reported in April 2024, detailing an advanced home device capable of moving a display. Recent updates suggest the device will combine a display similar to an iPad with a robotic arm designed to follow users throughout a room. This enables it to engage in a more human-like manner, such as turning toward someone speaking to it or trying to catch the attention of those not facing it.
Key features of the device emphasize communication, particularly through FaceTime, where the screen is able to adjust its positioning to focus on different individuals during video calls. An innovative aspect includes leveraging an iPhone as a joystick, allowing users to control the robot’s movements to showcase various people or objects during conversations.
The upcoming tabletop robot will be powered by a new version of Siri, referred to as “LLM Siri,” which is designed to interact seamlessly in daily conversations. This functionality aims to create a more personable experience for users, almost as if they have a companion in the room.
In addition to the robotic arm, Apple is reportedly working on a smart display/speaker, code-named J490. This device will offer functionalities such as home control, music playback, and video conferencing, without the robotic arm.
Both devices will operate on a new operating system named Charismatic, which features clock faces and widgets, enhancing user interaction. However, the success of these innovative ideas hinges on the efficacy of the AI, especially as Apple develops the new AI system, Linwood, to bolster its capabilities.
The company is also exploring long-term projects, such as a mobile robot with wheels, though it remains in the early stages of development and several years from release.
