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Apple is apparently working on a new robot that can interact with lifelike movements. A recently published video shows a lamp-like prototype that is reminiscent of the Pixar mascot Luxo Jr. in its mobility. The robot reacts to its environment and communicates in a way that has not been seen in commercial products before. According to reports, Apple could present a final version of the tabletop robot as early as 2026 or 2027. It will be controlled with Siri and Apple Intelligence and could serve as a smart assistant for everyday life. The information so far suggests that the device could be a high-quality extension of the Apple ecosystem.
Apple is not known for robotics, but the company has been developing technologies in recent years that could form the basis for such a robot. Apple has made great progress, especially in the field of machine learning and artificial intelligence (via Apple Machine Learning Research). With devices such as the HomePod, Face ID technology and the in-house voice assistant Siri, Apple has already created the first building blocks to successfully launch such a product on the market. The release of the prototype shows that the company is apparently working on a fully-fledged home robot. Apple could thus create a completely new product category that goes beyond classic smart home solutions.
A robot with natural interaction
The published prototype is able to interact with people in a way that goes beyond simple voice commands. The video shows that the robot not only gives answers but also shows visual and emotional reactions. For example, a person asks about the weather. Instead of simply giving an answer, the robot first turns to the window as if it were checking for itself. In another scene, it shows a sad reaction when it learns that it is not invited on an outing. In addition, the robot interacts with its environment in practical ways. For example, it can:
- adjust lighting conditions by following hand movements
- Push a cup towards the person to remind them to drink water
- Project instructions onto the wall if the person is working on a technical project
- Play music and move to the music, thereby also assuming a social function
This type of interaction is very different from previous voice assistants or smart home devices. The Apple robot could therefore be not only an assistant but also a companion.
Control via Siri and Apple Intelligence
The tabletop robot will be controlled via Apple's in-house voice assistant Siri. The device is also expected to use Apple Intelligence, an advanced AI technology that the company is currently developing. According to reports, the robot could be able to recognize different voices and respond to them individually. It could also execute commands such as "look at me", which automatically aligns the screen with the user's face during a FaceTime call. This suggests that the Apple robot will not only be a smart assistant but also a communication device with a display. A function that could be implemented via an iPad-like display on a robotic arm.
Possible market launch and price
Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reported that Apple could possibly unveil the tabletop robot between 2026 and 2027. However, plans are not yet finalized. The price has not yet been set either, but is currently estimated at around $1,000. This would put the device in the premium segment and could function as a kind of high-quality smart home hub. In addition to the robot, Apple is also rumored to be working on a simpler smart home device that could be released later this year. Developments in AI and robotics indicate that Apple wants to position itself more strongly in this area.
Apple robots: What does this mean for the market?
If Apple actually launches a lifelike robot with smart AI technology, it could usher in a whole new era of human-technology interaction. While voice assistants have so far mostly been static and limited to simple commands, this robot could enable intuitive and emotional interaction. Apple has often proven in the past that it does not have to be the first to offer a product to dominate the market. If the company develops a convincing solution for an intelligent table robot, it could have a lasting impact not only on the smart home market but also on the robotics industry. (Photo by Unsplash+ / Mariia Shalabaieva)
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