Rumors of Apple’s AI-powered tabletop robot could have these applications

Apple is said to be developing a tabletop device that features a robotic actuator and uses artificial intelligence (AI) to aid in tasks. The initiative is said to have been launched following the closure of the Apple Car project, the Cupertino-based tech giant’s autonomous vehicle that was pitched as a potential Tesla rival. A report now suggests that the alleged Apple robotic device would serve multiple purposes, including aiding in videoconferencing and acting as a watchdog when the user is away from home.

Applications of Apple’s AI-powered table robots

In his weekly Power On newsletterBloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple’s alleged tabletop device will likely hit the market in 2026 or 2027. It would come with a robotic actuator that would control the built-in iPad-like display at the top, allowing it to rotate and tilt 360 degrees. The device is said to be codenamed J595.

According to Gurman, the envisioned robotic device would serve three purposes:

1. Function as a portable computer in non-ideal locations
2. Helps capture images or conduct video conference calls by acting as a tripod with an iPad
3. Can serve as a remote home security monitoring tool when the user is not at home

While the device isn’t even official yet, the report speculates that the device’s screen could rotate if the user wants to make video conference calls in less-than-ideal locations, like the kitchen. It could also gain spatial awareness thanks to special hardware and software, in addition to integrated AI capabilities.

The idea for the tabletop robot device was reportedly approved by the company in 2022, but its development has only gained momentum in recent months, following the cancellation of the Apple Car project. Its development is said to be led solely by Kevin Lynch, who led the company’s former project.

Previous reports have suggested that the alleged device could also be Apple’s first home gadget to feature features powered by Apple Intelligence – its AI suite. Gurman also suggested that it could also respond to commands such as “look at me” by repositioning the screen to face the speaker, making use of the company’s Siri voice assistant.

However, it could be a costly affair. According to Gurman, the iPhone maker is said to be working on bringing the price down to $1,000 (roughly Rs. 84,000).