An old rumor is revived by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, according to his sources Apple may be working on a home robot for the table. It would be a HomePod with a display and a movable arm.
With this, Apple may want to compete with Amazon and Google, which currently sell smart speakers with an integrated screen. Thanks to the robotic arm, the display can move with the user, useful for active video calls.
Apple Home Robot
Bloomberg reports that a team of several hundred people within Apple is busy developing a home robot. There are reportedly advanced plans to bring a table model to market.
The home robot would feature an iPad-like screen combined with a thin robotic arm and speakers (HomePod). The robotic arm is used to move the screen 360º around and tilt it.
These types of devices are not new, by the way. Amazon Echo Show 10 and Meta Portal have similar features, but according to sources, Apple’s home robot would be an advanced version of these products.
In recent years, Apple has been researching this new market. Employees have rightly wondered whether consumers would be interested in such a product. Apparently, Tim Cook and John Ternus, among others, are big proponents and approved the plans for the project (codenamed J595) in 2022. However, sources tell Bloomberg that the team only formally started in recent months.
Central place for your smart home
A central hub for your smart home is likely to be the goal of Apple’s home robot. From the device, you can easily control your smart devices and manage your home security. You might also be able to view your Matter or HomeKit cameras at the same time.
AI, Siri and video calling
In addition, Siri and Apple Intelligence will play an important role on this device. You can ask the assistant for help with daily tasks, but also answer personal requests. In addition, video calling will also be possible. You can then make FaceTime calls from the home robot and thanks to the movable arm, the display follows you during the call.
Availability of Apple’s home robot
When exactly we can expect Apple’s home robot is not yet 100% clear. Mark Gurman does not expect the device until 2026 or 2027. He also made a prediction about the price, the robot would cost around 1000 dollars.