Apple to Focus on Robotics With Tabletop Robot

Apple reportedly is venturing into robotics with a new project that will include a ‘tabletop robot’. According to Bloomberg, Apple has brought together hundreds of workers to work on the “J595” (as it is allegedly called) desktop robot project. This product will create a central system for Apple’s smart home by combining a robotic arm and an iPad-like display. It is expected to be connected to upcoming Apple Intelligence services.

Moreover, United News Daily, a prominent media outlet in Taiwan reports that Hongzhun, an influential case maker owned by the Hon Hai Group, has been included in Apple’s robot supply chain collaboration. Hongzhun has emerged as the first Taiwanese cooperative factory in response to Apple’s aggressive push into the robot market. 

Hon Hai Technology Group is an international electronics manufacturer and has been mass-producing robotics components for quite some time now. 

Whereas, at a recent shareholder’s meeting, Hongzhun reportedly announced its plans to invest in emerging technologies like robotics and AI. It marks a shift from its traditional focus on manufacturing casings for laptops and game consoles. The company also brings prior experience, having assembled Foxconn’s “FoxBot” robots.

Industry insiders believe the company’s push into the desktop robotics market is not just about exploring new opportunities but also about strengthening the Apple ecosystem. By positioning Apple Intelligence at the core, Apple wants to enhance users’ experience across home, life, and work, making them more reliant on Apple products.

According to Mark Gurman (the tech journalist of Bloomberg who broke the story), the tabletop robot will feature an iPad-like display mounted on a robotic arm. It will be capable of tilting up and down and rotating 360 degrees. It will be designed to serve multiple functions, such as controlling smart home devices, attending video conferences, and monitoring home security.

Also, it will reportedly be able to respond to commands through Siri or Apple Intelligence features like “look at me,” which could automatically adjust the screen to face the user during a video call. The rumored robot is expected to run on an enhanced version of iPadOS. Tests for the gadget are currently underway. 

The project is reportedly advancing under the leadership of Kevin Lynch, Apple’s Vice President of Technology who oversaw the development of Apple Watch. 

The tabletop robot will most likely launch in 2026 or 2027 with an estimated price of around $1,000. 

Apple’s foray into robotics is part of a broader plan to increase sales and utilize its Apple Intelligence suite, an advanced AI technology set to launch on the iPhone, iPad, and Mac this year. This move comes after the company’s decision to scrap its self-driving car project, codenamed ‘Project Titan’, earlier this year.

In addition to robotics, Apple is working on augmented reality (AR) glasses and exploring less ambitious products like smart glasses. While these glasses would not provide a complete AR experience, they will enable users to make phone calls and record videos.

Also, Apple is planning to integrate cameras into its AirPods to enhance their interaction with the surrounding environment. The company is also developing a large foldable iPad, although this device may not be released until 2027 or 2028.