Apple's Next Revolution: Smart Homes with Robots and AI

Rumors have long circulated about Apple’s endeavor to integrate touchscreen-equipped smart home devices into its lineup. Recent reports suggest that Apple’s ambitions extend far beyond just HomePods with screens. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is not only working on these devices but also on innovative projects like a 'tabletop robot'.

This reported robot is described as resembling an iPad mounted on a mobile limb, designed to swivel and follow users around a room. It is also capable of turning towards individuals speaking to it or those it seeks to interact with. Early prototypes supposedly use a 7-inch display, akin to the size of an iPad mini, equipped with a built-in camera for FaceTime.

Apple aims for a 2027 launch for its robotic device, although the timeline could shift. This could either be a precursor or an advanced version of an earlier planned device featuring a HomePod with a screen. Both devices are expected to run on the same software platform.

Beyond robots, Apple is reportedly testing home security products, including cameras and smart doorbells capable of facial recognition. This technology could automate tasks like unlocking doors or playing music, enhancing the smart home experience.

Apple's smart home vision seems to parallel Amazon's recent endeavors, such as the Astro robot and the Echo Show products. However, Amazon has faced challenges scaling its hardware lineup, which makes Apple's journey intriguing.

Driving these smart home initiatives is a new iteration of Siri, powered by large language models similar to ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot. Although initially slated for release with iOS 18 in 2024, challenges delayed this “more personal Siri” to the latest software update. Apple is testing two versions of this enhanced Siri: one named 'Linwood' developed in-house, and another known as 'Glenwood', utilizing external models like Anthropic’s Claude.