Apple set to launch smart robot assistant by 2027

Bloomberg has revealed, citing informed sources, that Apple plans to launch a smart robot functioning as a virtual assistant by 2027. This move aims to provide an interactive experience that goes beyond what the iPhone or iPad currently offers.

According to the report, the new device will take the form of a desktop robot equipped with a 7-inch screen, similar to an iPad, mounted on a movable arm capable of rotating and extending about 6 inches in any direction, allowing it to reposition itself to face the speaker. Some Apple employees refer to the device as the "Pixar Lamp," as it resembles the logo of the famous animation studio.

The robot will operate as a smart assistant relying on artificial intelligence technologies, with Apple developing a new version of the Siri voice assistant capable of retaining information and engaging in interactive conversations, along with a new visual interface.

This design aims to enable the robot to act as if it were a person in the room, capable of intervening in discussions to suggest nearby restaurants or suitable recipes, for example, as well as participating in trip planning or organizing tasks, similar to the voice chat feature on the OpenAI platform.

The robot will support FaceTime calls with a feature akin to Center Stage, which follows the movements of people in the room, and it will allow control of the screen position through a joystick to show different angles during calls. The project is still in the prototype stage, meaning final decisions about it have not yet been made.

It is noted that Apple aims to launch the product in 2027 and has previously faced delays with similar projects. In parallel, Apple is also developing a mobile robot equipped with wheels and a large mechanical arm intended for use in factories or stores.