The rumors that Apple is developing a home robot don’t seem so unfounded, given the new development of its research division.
The device, which somewhat resembles the lamp from the Pixar screensaver, can be seen in the videos previously published on Apple Machine Learning Research.
In the video, the researcher performs a task with two versions of the robot — «expressive» and «functional» — which are essentially LED-lit table lamps, but with add-ons such as a camera, speaker, and projector. Both respond to gestures and voice commands, and speak in a voice that sounds suspiciously like Siri.
The expressive lamp is apparently more fun — and can even dance if you play music. In the video, it asks about the weather and follows the researcher’s work to add some light or water. When the lamp is told that it cannot go on a hike, it bows its head in mock sadness. The functional version, on the other hand, remains motionless unless the task requires it.
Apple’s focus on developing devices for the home was mentioned in numerous reports — mostly about smart display and desktop robot, which is positioned as an assistant to control a smart home. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the robot may go on sale as early as 2026-2027 at a price of $1,000.
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