Apple is reportedly developing a new home robot that combines an iPad with a robotic arm

Apple is exploring new product directions, and this time its target is home robots. Unlike the previously launched Apple Vision headset and the slow-progressing Apple Car project, Apple is focusing on a new home robot that combines an iPad with a robotic arm. This new venture is part of Apple’s plan to innovate in the home robotics sector, with Apple developing home robot aiming to redefine how we interact with smart technology in our homes.

According to Bloomberg, Apple’s R&D team is developing a device with a robotic arm. This arm allows the iPad to move freely around the display. The iPad can rotate and tilt through built-in actuators, adjusting to different scenarios. The Apple developing home robot will act as a smart home control center and also be suitable for video conferencing.

Users can control it through Siri and other smart features. For example, saying “Look at me” will automatically adjust the screen’s orientation and camera focus.

The device is expected to be released in 2026 or 2027. It is planned to sell for around $1,000. The project, codenamed J595, received approval from Apple’s top executives in 2022. Research and development for the project has accelerated recently.

The R&D team includes several hundred people. Despite concerns about consumer acceptance and software development challenges, the project enjoys strong support from Apple’s top executives, including CEO Tim Cook and hardware engineering chief John Ternus.

Kevin Lynch, Apple’s vice president of technology, leads the project. Lynch has previously overseen Apple’s car project and health software engineering.