Bloomberg revealed Apple engineers are working on a home robot prototype, shifting gears after it recently closed its self-driving car project.
Apple remains tight-lipped about the project, offering no details on specifications, design, or purpose. However, leaks suggest a mobile companion robot that can follow users around the home, offering entertainment, answering questions, and even engaging in conversation.
The robot is expected to run on an Apple-compatible operating system, seamlessly integrating with existing devices and user applications. Following the approach with Apple Vision Pro headset, the robot might open doors for developers to create specialized applications, expanding its capabilities.
This move follows Apple's decision to shutter its self-driving car project. Many engineers transitioned to the AI department, which, alongside the hardware team, is now spearheading the development of this home robot.
Apple's historical track record suggests a potential shake-up for the home robotics industry. Similar to the iPhone's 2007 launch and the recent Vision Pro headset, Apple has a knack for disrupting fields. However, the usefulness of this personal home robot prototype remains a question mark for some, considering its capabilities may not significantly surpass existing personal assistants.
Apple’s New Approach
I think Apple is making a move into the field of humanoid robots, a sector they previously hesitated to enter and which has recently seen a surge in competitors.
Perhaps Apple recognized a need to refine its approach, which relies on making its new products stand out from everything else on the market. Instead of aiming to create a humanoid robot that would outperform competitors and ultimately fail, as we've seen with self-driving cars, Apple decided to start with a simpler home robot that would have a greater chance of success and distinction.
It starts simply and gradually increases its capabilities and functions, aiming to reach the creation of a humanoid robot at a measured pace built on a strong foundation.
