Apple Explores Humanoid and Non-Humanoid Robots for Future Smart Home Ecosystem

Apple reportedly wants its own version of this Tesla tech

Apple could be eyeing up a new kind of hardware. (Image credit: Apple) When it comes to tech trends, Apple can be the starter of the trend or come late to the party. It may have revolutionized the smartphone industry, but it lags behind in AI, as seen with Apple Intelligence. Apple appears to have set its sights on a new technology that is still in its infancy, but it's advancing rapidly. The company that looks to be leading the push for this tech is none other than Elon Musk's company, Tesla. The iPhone maker is reportedly interested in becoming a robot maker, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo as first spotted by TechCrunch. "Apple is exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots for its future smart home ecosystem, and these products are still in the early proof-of-concept (POC) stage internally," Kuo said on X Wednesday. Leading the company's robotic work is Kevin Lynch, the executive who was responsible for developing the software for the Apple Watch and formerly the head of the now-defunct Apple Car project, according to Bloomberg. These robots are likely several years away from ever coming to fruition. Apple didn't immediately respond to an email asking for confirmation about its interest in making robots. The tech company making the biggest push for robots is Tesla. The car company has been promoting its Tesla Optimus robot since 2021 when its announcement consisted of a person dressed up in a robot outfit. Last year, the company heavily pushed the promise of a robot future with videos featuring the robot in action although there were questions on how much work the robot was actually doing. A media event featuring several Optimus robots demonstrated how these machines could work the bar or serve drinks with witty banter, but they weren't totally independent and reportedly required humans to handle some interactions remotely. Nevertheless, Musk expects 2025 to be a big year for the Optimus robot. During a Tesla earnings call last month, the CEO said while the company won't reach its goals in the number of robots he said it would produce, it's going to come close. "Will we succeed in building 10,000 exactly by the end of December this year? Probably not, but will we succeed in making several thousand? Yes, I think we will," Musk said on the earnings call as reported by Business Insider. "Will those several thousand Optimus robots be doing useful things by the end of the year? Yes, I'm confident they will do useful things." Apple isn't the only one now getting into the robot race. Meta is reportedly interested in making its own robots. The social media company began investing in robot technology and created a new team in its Reality Labs hardware division to handle the work, Bloomberg reported Friday. Meta reportedly plans to make humanoid robot hardware to take care of household chores, and the company wants to make the AI and the tech that will power robots manufactured and sold by other companies. The report says Meta doesn't want to make a Meta-branded robot to compete directly with Tesla's Optimus. Meta is currently leading the market when it comes to AR glasses with its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. The company reportedly sold more than 2 million pairs of the glasses.

Apple Teasing Home Robots? Top Analyst Predicts Surprise for iPhone Giant - Decrypt

Rumors that Apple is developing humanoid robots have begun to circulate again after Apple analyst at TF International Securities, Ming-Chi Kuo, tweeted Wednesday that the world's largest company is exploring humanoid and non-humanoid robots for its smart home ecosystem. Though chatter about Apple's robotics ambitions intensified after Apple CEO Tim Cook tweeted Wednesday that people should "get ready to meet the newest member of the family" at an Apple launch event next week, hardly anyone believes the company will be introducing a humanoid robot. Most speculation points to a new rendition of the compact iPhone SE. Still, Kuo, who is known for his accurate predictions regarding Apple's product roadmap -- often based on insider information from Asian supply chain sources -- excited speculation with his tweet. "These products are still in the early proof-of-concept stage internally," Kuo wrote. "While the industry debates the merits of humanoid vs. non-humanoid designs, supply chain checks indicate Apple cares more about how users build perception with robots than their physical appearance." The push to develop humanoid robots accelerated in 2024, with companies like Tesla, Figure, Nvidia, Agility Robotics, and Boston Dynamics introducing robots designed for human-centric workplaces. (According to a recent report, Meta is even making significant investments in humanoid robotics.) The rapid advancements in AI and robotics have led to bold predictions, including by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who speculated in October that robots could outnumber humans by 2040, potentially surpassing 10 billion in just fifteen years. Despite these bold predictions, even Kuo noted that the timetable for a proof-of-concept design varies, and that Apple's robot production is unlikely to start before 2028. "Many projects never progress beyond proof-of-concept," Kuo wrote. "The Apple Car is probably the most notable example of a project that got stuck at this stage." This is not the first time that pundits have suggested that Apple might be introducing a robot to its product lineup. And clearly Apple, which produced a TV series featuring a very Apple-like home robot, isn't exactly tamping down speculation. But what form its first offering might take was hotly debated. Indeed, Kuo noted that Apple used the term "anthropomorphic" instead of "humanoid," suggesting that perhaps the company's robot roadmap would launch with something that performed human chores without looking like Sunny. "Apple execs are trained on the customer journey," futurist and founder of the Unaligned Newsletter, Robert Scoble, told Decrypt. "We don't have robots in our homes, and they know we aren't ready to have a humanoid robot in ours yet, so they will start with a variety of more specific, constrained robots to get us used to them." While Scoble is skeptical of Apple's ability to lead in AI and robotics, he suggested that the company's robotic lamp, featured in a paper by Apple's Machine Learning Research division in January, could be a stepping stone toward larger ambitions in humanoid robotics. (See video at the bottom of page.) "If done well, and it looks like it is, it will help consumers grow comfortable with Apple as a robotics company," he said. Other robotics experts pointed out that, Boston Dynamics videos notwithstanding, the field has a long way to go before humanoid robots are ready for prime time. "We're still in the stage of making these robots perceive the environment and act like humans," Professor of Computer Science at USC and co-founder of Sahara AI, Sean Ren, told Decrypt. "The intellectual abilities of thinking and then making decisions is at a similar level to ChatGPT." Phil Elmer-Dewitt, who runs the popular Apple Blog Apple 3.0, went even further: "If Apple markets a humanoid robot in 2028 -- or even 2038 -- I'll eat my hat."

Forget the iPhone -- Apple's next big product could be a robot

Apple explores humanoid and non-humanoid robotics development Although the research paper offers insights into potential consumer robots, it highlights that Apple remains in the early stages of research in robotics. Kuo classifies the current work as "early proof-of-concept," noting similarities to the early stage at which the Apple Car project was abandoned. He predicts that mass production of Apple's robots may not begin until 2028, citing current progress and development cycles. What differentiates this robotics initiative from other projects at Apple, such as the rumored foldable iPhone, is the level of openness displayed by the company. This transparency is unusual for Apple, which typically maintains a tight lid on project details, as seen recently when it requested a public apology from a former iOS engineer over leaked Vision Pro information. Video: Apple Kuo suggests that the use of terms like "non-anthropomorphic" indicates Apple's focus on how users perceive robots rather than their physical appearance. He adds, "while the industry debates the merits of humanoid vs. non-humanoid designs," Supply chain insights suggest that Apple prioritizes the functionality of sensing hardware and software in its robotics. Broadly understood, "anthropomorphic" applies to robotic systems that exhibit human-like characteristics without being exact replicas of a human body. Currently, Apple is experimenting with a range of designs, from simple robots to complex humanoid systems. The concept of proof-of-concept systems relates to a "future smart home ecosystem," which could include various products, such as a humanoid designed for household chores or a smart home display that features a mechanical arm. Recent leaks suggest a focus on practical, more achievable designs, rather than an immediate introduction of complex humanoids capable of complex tasks, like doing laundry. Several companies, including 1X, Figure, and Apptronik, are researching transitions from industrial humanoids to home use. However, price and reliability remain major challenges. The first consumer humanoids are expected to be costly, following experiences with Apple's $3,499 Vision Pro. The current goal for these industrial humanoids is to achieve reliable production at scale to reduce costs over time. Considering Apple's prior challenges with the Apple Car, Vision Pro, and Apple Intelligence, the company is likely taking a cautious approach to robotics. While Apple has historically succeeded in popularizing existing product categories, the landscape of home robotics has seen numerous failures, a concern mirrored in the broader smart home sector. Kuo reaffirmed that Apple is actively investigating robotics but emphasized it is early in the product development cycle. He noted that the proof-of-concept stage serves as a testing ground to evaluate the viability of core technologies and product concepts. In the stock market, Apple shares rose 1.8% to close at $236.87, currently in a seven-week consolidation pattern. The official buy point is set at $260.10, coinciding with the stock's all-time high reached on December 26. An early-entry buy point around $240 may emerge if the stock surpasses its 50-day moving average, with a potential alternative entry at the January 31 high of $247.19. Apple is not the only tech giant pursuing humanoid robotics; Tesla is developing a humanoid robot named Optimus. Other companies in the market include Agility Robotics, Boston Dynamics, Figure AI, and Unitree Robotics. Concurrently, Nvidia is promoting its processors and software tools for the development of humanoid and other robotic systems.

Apple has a humanoid robot in the works, according to a report

Apple was slow to enter the AI space, launching its own solution, Apple Intelligence, nearly two years after the emergence of ChatGPT. Now, it seems the company is gearing up to delve deeper into the space, exploring robotics that would leverage its expertise in hardware and software. Also: AI humanoid robots step closer - thanks to new $350 million investment On Wednesday, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared in an X post that Apple is exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots. These robots are still in the early proof-of-concept stage internally and would be incorporated into the Apple smart home ecosystem. Kuo added that Apple is more invested in how users interact with the robot than in how the robots themselves look. Apple uses anthropomorphic robots as opposed to humanoid robots, with sensing hardware and software at the core. Samsung has taken a similar approach with its smart home robot, Ballie. This basketball-looking robot can assist users throughout their homes and complete tasks such as greeting them at the door, projecting notifications, and more. Also: Wanted: Humans to build robots for OpenAI - and not everyone is thrilled Last November, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman shared that Apple is working on a smart home display that can control appliances, support video calls, use AI to navigate apps, and feature Apple Intelligence, which Apple may introduce as soon as March, according to the report. With a clear intention to expand into the smart home space, it is fitting that Apple is exploring robots to add to the ecosystem, according to Kuo's report. Kuo shares that Apple's mass production of robots likely won't start until 2028 or later, if the robots even make it into production. The post highlights how some of Apple's proof-of-concepts don't even make it past that stage, such as the Apple Car, which never made it into production. Also: Apple finally lets you migrate purchases between two accounts - here's how The progress made in the AI space has accelerated the pace at which humanoid robots can be developed, and as a result, we have seen many tech companies rush in on the action. OpenAI and Tesla are both hiring to grow their robotics teams, and Apptronik just announced the closing of a $350 million Series A funding round to accelerate the deployment of Apollo, its 5-foot, 8-inch, 160-pound robot.

Apple's Next Big Bet? Tim Cook-Led Company Is 'Exploring' Humanoid As Well As Non-Humanoid Robots For Smart Home Future, Says Top Analyst Apple's Future Smart Home Ecosystem May Include Robots, Says Ming-Chi Kuo. 'Exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid - Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA)

Apple Inc. AAPL is reportedly exploring the development of humanoid and non-humanoid robots for its future smart home ecosystem, according to a post by TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. What Happened: On Wednesday, Kuo posted on X that Apple is focusing on how users perceive and interact with robots, rather than their physical design. He emphasized that the tech giant is prioritizing sensing hardware and software as the core technologies for these potential products. Apple did not immediately respond to Benzinga's request for comment. However, Kuo cautioned that these products are still in the early proof-of-concept (POC) stage internally at Apple. He suggested that the timeline from POC to formal kick-off varies, and mass production of Apple's robots likely won't start until 2028 or later. The analyst also pointed out that the Apple Car remained stuck at the proof-of-concept stage and never moved forward. SEE ALSO: Apple Intelligence Rollout In China And Europe To Boost iPhone Sales, Says Deepwater's Gene Munster Why It Matters: Apple is considering a range of robotic systems, from simple devices to complex humanoids, as part of a future smart home ecosystem. Last week, a blog on Apple's Machine Learning Research site revealed a robot in a video that resembled the Pixar lamp. The company is reportedly working on a smart home tabletop robot equipped with an iPad-like display and a robotic arm, suggesting Apple's vision for AI-driven home automation. The Tim Cook-led company's venture into the robotics segment is seen as a move to compete with Tesla Inc. TSLA and its humanoid robot, Optimus. In October, Elon Musk posted a video on X demonstrating Tesla's Optimus robot successfully navigating uneven terrain. The company has been unusually transparent about its robotics research, possibly to attract top talent in the field. Previously, Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman revealed that the company has ramped up its recruitment efforts and published multiple job openings for robotics specialists in recent weeks. READ MORE: Why The MAGS ETF Has Remained Flat Year-to-Date Despite Some Strong Performers Image via Shutterstock Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. TSLATesla Inc$344.482.37%Overview Rating:Good62.5%Technicals Analysis1000100Financials Analysis400100WatchlistOverviewAAPLApple Inc$236.14-0.31%Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

Apple's Plan To Possibly Make Robots Revealed By Well Known Analyst

This is not investment advice. The author has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Wccftech.com has a disclosure and ethics policy. Cupertino, California, tech giant Apple is reportedly interested in developing robots for consumer use, claims reputed Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Humanoid robots are witnessing increasing interest in the tech sector, with Elon Musk leading the charge and tying Tesla's future valuation to them instead of electric vehicles. As per Kuo, Apple's humanoid development is in its early stages, and as opposed to simply focusing on humanoids, the firm is exploring ways in which its customers can interact with the robots. According to Kuo, Apple's robot plans are still in the proof of concept or development stage. He believes that instead of solely focusing on humanoids, the firm is choosing to learn how its users might interact with their robots. Consumer interaction has always been central in Apple's product philosophy, and Kuo writes that "Apple cares more about how users build perception with robots than their physical appearance." As a result, he adds that the firm might be focusing on "sensing hardware and software [as] the core technologies." Kuo also believes that since the proof of concept for robots is still in the early stages, Apple is unlikely to start mass production of the products until 2028. The firm is also recruiting talent for robotic development and has been candidly sharing its proof of concept work to attract talent into its fold, according to the analyst. However, the analyst cautions that just because the robots might be in a proof of concept stage doesn't mean that the product might see the light of day. Proof of concept is an underlooked aspect of Apple's product strategy, Kuo outlines. As this phase focuses on evaluating whether a product is viable before formally commencing development, the robots might not see the light of day, he says. An example of a product stuck in the proof of concept stage according to the analyst is the much hyped Apple Car. After rumors and reports claimed for years that the firm was developing its car, Apple scrapped the project in April last year. Along with artificial intelligence, robotics is another emerging technology that has caught the industry's eye recently. Tesla chief Elon Musk has repeatedly asserted that his firm can manufacture tens of thousands of humanoid robots by 2027. NVIDIA's Blackwell GPUs, which are predominantly believed to be the prominent AI product, also have features that can propel humanoid robot development. Firms such as Cathie Wood's Ark Invest also believe that the humanoid market can be worth trillions of dollars. The robots are believed to add to industrial productivity by reducing accidents and improving efficiency over current equipment and humans.

Apple and Meta in Race To Develop AI-Powered Humanoid Robots - Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL)

Two of the world's tech behemoths, Apple Inc. AAPL and Meta Platforms Inc. META, are reportedly preparing to go head-to-head in the race to develop artificial intelligence (AI)-powered humanoid robots. Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman in his latest weekly "Power On" has revealed that both tech giants are turning their attention to the burgeoning field of humanoid robots. These robots could potentially perform tasks such as folding laundry or pushing children on a swing. This new focus comes amidst the companies' ongoing rivalry in the mixed-reality headsets market. Meta has reportedly established a new unit within its Reality Labs hardware division specifically for humanoid technology development. The company's immediate goal is to create a software platform that hardware manufacturers can utilize to break into this sector. Meta is confident in its market advantage, thanks to its development of sensors and computing technologies for mixed reality, and its AI model, Llama, which has been gaining industry traction. Also Read: Apple's Revamped iPhone SE To Kickstart Pivotal Year Amid Challenges Meanwhile, Apple is also venturing into the robotics space, albeit with a distinct approach. The company is renowned for its preference for products where it controls all the inputs - hardware, software, and more. It is said to be exploring a machine that would be a humanoid, showcasing Apple's AI and tightly integrated technology. Apple's robotics technologies are being developed by advanced AI research teams within its larger machine-learning group. Although an Apple humanoid is still several years away, it could potentially compete with Tesla Inc. TSLA's Optimus. Google's DeepMind group is also reportedly investigating robotics technology, indicating the growing interest in this field among tech giants. The development of AI-powered humanoid robots represents a significant leap in technology and has the potential to revolutionize various sectors. From healthcare to domestic chores, these robots could drastically change how tasks are performed. The competition between Apple and Meta, both leaders in their respective fields, will likely accelerate the development and adoption of this technology, potentially bringing us closer to a future where humanoid robots are a common sight. Read Next Apple's Struggles in AI and AR Indicate a Loss in Product Edge Image: Shutterstock AAPLApple Inc$244.651.29%Overview Rating:Good75%Technicals Analysis1000100Financials Analysis600100WatchlistOverviewMETAMeta Platforms Inc$737.481.22%TSLATesla Inc$354.00-0.55%Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

Apple is reportedly exploring humanoid robots | TechCrunch

Apple is exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robotics form factors, according to a new scoop from longtime Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The intel comes on the heels of a research paper from the iPhone-maker that explores human interactions with "non-anthropomorphic" robots - specifically a Pixar-style lamp. While Apple's research paper highlights elements that could inform an eventual consumer robot, the work primarily shines a light on progress from a company still mired in the early research stages of a complex field. Kuo qualifies the work as "early proof-of-concept," adding that the Apple Car project was effectively abandoned in a similarly early stage. Citing "current progress and typical development cycles," Kuo projects 2028 as an optimistic timeline for mass production. What makes robots unique compared to other early-stage Apple projects - such as a rumored foldable iPhone - is the level of transparency from the notoriously tight-lipped Apple. (This is the same company that, as part of a legal settlement, recently demanded a public apology from a former iOS engineer who leaked details about the Vision Pro.) It's unavoidable. Progress in robotics is supported by work from universities and research facilities, along with behind-the-scenes corporate projects. For the past several years, many robotics companies have faced difficulties hiring quickly enough to support release timelines that have accelerated in the age of generative AI. Publishing research for the public to read is a great resource for recruiting engineers. Kuo suggests that the research paper's use of the "non-anthropomorphic" qualifier is designed to distinguish the robot from humanoid research. "While the industry debates the merits of humanoid vs. non-humanoid designs," he writes, "supply chain checks indicate Apple cares more about how users build perception with robots than their physical appearance [...] implying sensing hardware and software serve as the core technologies." Broadly speaking, "anthropomorphic" can be applied to robotic systems beyond what we might normally classify as a humanoid. This includes systems that are influenced by human characteristics but aren't exactly a one-to-one humanoid with two arms, two legs, and a face. Apple appears to currently be in the "throw it at the wall" phase, with work ranging from simple systems to complex humanoids. Kuo broadly refers to the proof-of-concept system as part of a "future smart home ecosystem." That could mean anything from a full humanoid designed for household chores to a smart home display with a mechanical arm. Leaks around the work have suggested the latter - which is far more plausible than coming out of the gate with a humanoid capable of folding your laundry. Such a product could have a place on a far-off road map, but to get there, Apple first needs to prove that people want a home robot that isn't just a vacuum. Numerous companies that are building industrial humanoids, including 1X, Figure, and Apptronik, are researching a path from the factory floor to the home. Pricing and reliability are two major sticking points. If you think the $3,499 Vision Pro was a tough pill to swallow, wait until you see the first batch of humanoids for the home. For now, the goal is getting reliable industrial humanoid production to scale, which will bring the price down over time. After abandoning the Apple Car and stumbling out of the gate with both the Vision Pro and Apple Intelligence, it's fair to assume that Apple is taking a cautious approach to robots. While Apple has a solid track record of popularizing existing product categories, Silicon Valley is littered with the husks of failed home robots. The same can also be said for the smart home category. One thing we can say for certain is that Apple is actively exploring robotics. Beyond that, we can probably look forward to at least another three years of leaks and speculation.

Apple secretly planning powerful humanoid robot to rival China, Tesla

This revelation follows a research paper from Apple that explores human interactions with non-anthropomorphic robots, specifically using a Pixar-style lamp as an example. While this research hints at possible future consumer robots, it primarily serves as a proof-of-concept study rather than a concrete product plan. Kuo describes Apple's robotics work as "early proof-of-concept," comparing it to the now-abandoned Apple Car project. Based on current progress and industry development timelines, he estimates that a potential Apple robot would not enter mass production before 2028. Apple's robotics research stands out due to its unusual level of transparency, especially for a company known for its secrecy. Unlike other projects, such as a rumored foldable iPhone, Apple has been more open about its work in robotics. This transparency may be due to the nature of robotics research, which often relies on collaboration with universities and public research facilities. As reported by TechCrunch, many robotics companies have struggled to hire talent fast enough to keep up with the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence in recent years. By publishing research, Apple could be positioning itself as an attractive option for top engineers in the field.

Apple reportedly exploring both 'humanoid and non-humanoid' robots for the home

We may be close to robots having an 'iPhone moment' and if Apple has anything to say about it, they'll be the ones producing that moment. Two different reports from regular Apple tipsters indicate that Apple is building up its robotics department with an eye to the future. Though, one is more optimistic than the other. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported on X today that Apple is "exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots." He noted that these potential robots are in the proof-of-concept stage. "While the industry debates the merits of humanoid vs. non-humanoid designs, supply chain checks indicate Apple cares more about how users build perception with robots than their physical appearance," Kuo writes. "(so Apple uses anthropomorphic instead of humanoid), implying sensing hardware and software serve as the core technologies." According to Kuo, we won't see an Apple robot until 2028, assuming one comes out at all. "Apple has been unusually open about sharing some of its robotics research during the early POC stage -- possibly to attract talent," he writes. He goes on to remind everyone that the much-rumored Apple foldable device is in the concept stage and that things may not progress beyond that, ala the Apple Car -- which was reportedly halted in February 2024. Kuo's report lines up with a recent newsletter from Apple whisperer Mark Gurman. He claimed that Cupertino has a had a secret team working on "home robotics devices" apparently built on the ashes of the 'self-driving car unit,' which died last February. Apparently, there is a specific Home Labs hardware and an AI special projects team. These teams are working towards both a "tabletop robot" and a humanoid model. The tabletop one is supposed to be closer to launching in 2027 as an adaptation of the smart home hub that Apple is expected to unveil later this year. Recently, Apple has posted a number of job listings for robotics specialists that read, "As a member of the team, you'll have the opportunity to work with a small team of highly skilled engineers and scientists to bring new experiences to Apple products." In January, as noted by MacRumors, the Machine Learning team posted a blog about a Pixar-esque lamp that was able to move around. It does seem to confirm a previous rumor that Apple is working on a smart home hub that could feature a robotic arm. That device was rumored to be able to tilt, rotate 360-degrees and orient itself to face users as needed. Also, it could cost as much as $1,000 and might launch in 2026 or 2027. Between now and this robot future, we'll have to wait for this year's Apple smart home hub which seems like it will be at the core of any future home robots.

Report: Apple Explores Robots for Smart Home Applications | PYMNTS.com

Apple is reportedly exploring both humanoid and non-humanoid robots for smart home applications. The company's research is considering a range of possible robotic systems, from simple ones to complex humanoids, TechCrunch reported Wednesday (Feb. 12), citing a post on X by Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Apple did not immediately reply to PYMNTS' request for comment. In his post, Kuo said the products are in the early proof-of-concept (POC) stage at Apple and that mass production of any potential Apple robots would likely not start any time before 2028. Kuo added that POC is "Apple's testing ground" and that many projects -- such as the Apple Car -- don't progress beyond that stage. Speaking of the robots, Kuo said in the post: "While the industry debates the merits of humanoid vs. non-humanoid design, supply chain checks indicate Apple cares more about how users build perception with robots than their physical appearance (so Apple uses anthropomorphic instead of humanoid), implying sensing hardware and software serve as the core technologies." It was reported in April that Apple was considering entering the personal robotics market as it looked for new opportunities for growth after ending its electric vehicle project. One project the company was exploring was a mobile robot for use in homes, while another was a tabletop device with a display that can be moved with robotics. German tech company Sereact said in January that it raised $26 million for its efforts to create AI solutions for additional robotic platforms, including humanoid and mobile robots, that perform more complicated tasks beyond logistics and manufacturing. The company already makes vision language action models that allow robots to understand and adapt to their environments in real time.

Apple Ramps Up Hiring for Work on Home Robotics Devices

Apple has been ramping up hiring for its robotics research and engineering teams to help spur the development of home robotics devices, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The company is currently in the early stages of developing a tabletop robot and has its sights set on potentially creating a humanoid model in the future. The robotics work is being spearheaded by two departments within Apple: the Home Labs hardware engineering group and Kevin Lynch's AI special projects team. These teams originated from Apple's now-defunct self-driving car unit, which was disbanded last February. Over the past several weeks, Apple has posted numerous job listings for robotics specialists, stating that new hires will have "the opportunity to work with a small team of highly skilled engineers and scientists to bring new experiences to Apple products." Last month, a team of robotics researchers at Apple published a research paper and accompanying video showcasing a lamp-like robot prototype with lifelike movements. The robot, reminiscent of Pixar's mascot Luxo Jr., demonstrates various interactions with a person, such as responding to weather inquiries, providing lighting for iPhone photography, reminding the person to drink water, and even dancing along to music as a social companion. While the research paper provided a glimpse into Apple's robotics experimentation, Gurman has previously reported that the company is developing a tabletop robot with an "iPad-like display" attached to a robotic limb. This device, which could launch by 2027, is expected to be primarily controlled with Siri and Apple Intelligence, with the ability to respond to commands like "look at me" during FaceTime video calls. Gurman believes Apple's tabletop robot is likely to be something closer to a HomePod smart speaker with a screen attached to a robotic limb, and it could turn out to be a higher-end version of Apple's rumored smart home hub, which is expected to launch this year.

What is Apple's Strategy for Humanoid Robots?

Apple Dives into Robotics: Exploring Humanoid and Non-Humanoid Designs for Smart Homes Apple, the technology giant that revolutionized personal computing and mobile devices, is now exploring a new frontier: robotics. More specifically, it focuses on humanoid robots. This foray into robotics is not merely an addition to 's product range but also a big move towards bringing AI and into everyday life, especially into the smart home environment. Here's what we know about Apple's strategy, its timeline, and the potential impact on technology and home living.

Apple Ramping Up Hiring For Home Robotics Team, Says Top Analyst: What's Brewing? - Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL)

Apple Inc. AAPL is reportedly ramping up its recruitment efforts for its home robotics division. What Happened: In his latest weekly "Power On" newsletter, Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman said that the company has posted several job listings for robotics specialists over the past few weeks. "As a member of the team, you'll have the opportunity to work with a small team of highly skilled engineers and scientists to bring new experiences to Apple products," the tech giant stated. See Also: Mark Zuckerberg's Meta Pays Trump $25 Million To Settle Lawsuit Over Facebook, Instagram Ban After Jan. 6 Riot: 'A Big Year For Redefining Our Relationships With Governments' Apple's robotics development is handled by two teams: the Home Labs hardware engineering group and Kevin Lynch's AI special projects team. They are focused on a tabletop robot and, in the future, possibly a humanoid model, Gurman said. The company is still in the early stages of researching mobile robots, both humanoid and non-humanoid. However, the tabletop robot is expected to debut by 2027. Subscribe to the Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox. Why It Matters: Last month, Apple also published a research paper detailing a tabletop robot resembling the Pixar logo lamp. Gurman previously reported that Apple's smart tabletop device may feature an iPad-like screen attached to a robotic arm. Apple is also exploring smart home technology. A Face ID-enabled smart doorbell is reportedly in development. It could arrive by late 2025. Image via Shutterstock Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by following this link. Read Next: Apple's iPad Turns 15 Today: Here's A Throwback To When Steve Jobs Explained Called It The 'Third Category' After Phones And Notebooks Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. AAPLApple Inc$227.25-2.56%Overview Rating:Good75%Technicals Analysis1000100Financials Analysis600100WatchlistOverviewMarket News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs