- Apple develops AI-powered tabletop robot for home use
- Analysts skeptical of success, comparing it to failed competitors’ products
- New device faces challenge of matching iPhone’s revenue impact
Siri’s New Body
Apple is reportedly developing a tabletop robot featuring a large display and a 360-degree movable robotic arm. This AI-powered device, potentially priced around $1,000, could hit the market by 2026 or 2027.
CEO Tim Cook and other executives are said to be backing the project, which aims to bring Apple’s AI capabilities into a new form factor.
Echo of the Past?
Industry analysts, however, are skeptical about the device’s potential success. Some draw comparisons to Meta’s discontinued Portal and Amazon’s Echo, questioning whether Apple can succeed where others have stumbled.
The smart home technology market has yet to yield strong returns for Big Tech companies, making this venture a risky move for Apple.
iPhone’s Shadow Looms Large
Despite Apple’s track record of setting trends and creating demand, convincing consumers and investors may prove challenging.
Analysts emphasize that any new product would pale in comparison to the iPhone, which still drives half of Apple’s revenue.
The success of this tabletop robot may hinge on the full capabilities of Apple Intelligence, set to launch in October, and how it integrates with the company’s existing ecosystem.
