Apple plans to introduce an AI-driven home robot as early as 2027 with a price tag of $1,000 or more, according to Ars Technica. The device aims to autonomously roam around rooms, support FaceTime calls, and switch on lights when people walk in.
Key takeaways
- Ars Technica reports that Apple is developing a roaming home robot code-named J595.
- The device could launch by 2027 with a price tag of $1,000 or more, though delays might push it to 2028.
- Engineers have worked on prototypes since 2018 with approval from former CEO Tim Cook.
- The product may be named HomeView Ultra to match the stationary HomeView smart display.
What is the upcoming Apple home robot?
Apple CEO John Ternus is pushing the development of household robots at the company. Ars Technica explains that the initial robotic product is code-named J595 and might receive the name HomeView Ultra. Early prototypes of the device first emerged back in 2018, receiving approval from former CEO Tim Cook to keep the project moving forward. Engineers have spent years refining software and adding AI technologies to give the machine more capabilities.
What features will Apple robotics include?
The device is designed to move around autonomously while supporting video calls and turning on room lights automatically upon entry. Ars Technica notes that the team wants to expand beyond being a fancy way to make FaceTime calls to justify the high price tag. Development delays might push the release back to 2028, even though the current target points to 2027.
What it means for smart home buyers
Consumers looking at future tech purchases might find the features underwhelming when compared to existing smart home gadgets or standard robot vacuums. Ars Technica points out that buyers will have to decide if a $1,000 device that moves around for video calls and light switches is worth the investment. The project highlights how hardware teams continue trying to find practical household uses for advanced AI systems despite development hurdles over the years.
Frequently asked questions
Ars Technica reports that Apple is aiming to launch the home robot by 2027, though development delays could push the release back to 2028.
The robotic product is expected to carry a price tag of $1,000 or more according to reports from Ars Technica.
The AI-driven home robot is currently code-named J595 and may be named HomeView Ultra upon release.
The device is designed to roam around autonomously, support FaceTime calls, and switch on lights when a person enters a room.
The earliest prototypes of the home robot came out in 2018 and received approval from former Apple CEO Tim Cook to continue the project.
Based on reporting by Ars Technica. Read the original article
