Apple is advancing in the development of a tabletop robotic device, as reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Initially revealed in April, Apple’s robotics ambitions included a mobile robot designed to follow users around their homes.
The latest update indicates that Apple is now intensifying its efforts on a smart home device with a robotic arm, intended to function as a command center, videoconferencing tool, and remote-controlled security system.
HomePod-like Device with a Robotic Arm
Additionally, Apple is reportedly working on a HomePod-like device featuring a screen capable of swiveling with a robotic arm. This project, involving a team of several hundred people, aims to create a “pricey tabletop home device” combining an iPad-like display with a robotic limb.
The device’s display is expected to tilt up and down and rotate 360 degrees using an actuator and a thin robotic arm for enhanced movement. The project received approval from Apple executives in 2022, with significant progress made in recent months.
Development Team
The development is spearheaded by Kevin Lynch, Apple’s vice president of technology, who previously led the Apple Car project before it was discontinued in February. Apple’s hardware engineering team, including Matt Costello, who leads HomePod development, is also actively involved.
In parallel, Apple is exploring other robotics projects, including robots that can move around the home and discussions about a humanoid version. These initiatives are partly led by Hanns Wolfram Tappeiner, a robotics expert overseeing a team of around 100 former car team engineers.
The primary user interaction with this device is expected to be through Siri and other Apple Intelligence features. The device currently runs on a modified version of iPadOS and may include capabilities such as voice recognition and the ability to respond to commands like “look at me” to focus on the speaker.
Expected Pricing and Launch Date
Apple aims to launch this tabletop home device by 2026 or 2027, targeting a price point of around $1,000. However, given the extended timeline, these plans could still evolve.