iPad Equipped with AI, Manipulated by Robot Arm, Interjecting Discussions in a Constructive Manner (in a Favorable Fashion)
Apple is set to launch a tabletop robot companion device in 2027, marking a significant leap in the tech giant's foray into AI-driven robotics [1][3][4]. The device, reminiscent of the Luxo Jr. mascot from Pixar Studios, features a 7-inch iPad-like touchscreen mounted on a movable robotic arm that can rotate and extend about six inches in any direction to face the user dynamically.
Key features of the device include an AI-enhanced Siri, designed to remember user information, engage in back-and-forth discussions, make relevant suggestions, and act much like a human companion [1][3]. The Siri of this device may also have a "visual personality," with experimental concepts like the Finder logo or Memoji-style avatars under consideration [1][3].
The robot is designed to behave like a person in a room, capable of interrupting conversations with context-relevant suggestions and supporting complex tasks such as trip planning [1][3]. This aims to bring generative AI into a physical device in the home or office.
The device will support video calls, moving its screen to keep the user in view automatically. A joystick option may also allow manual control of the camera angle during calls [1]. The robot runs on a new OS designed for multiple users and to support this new form of AI interaction [3].
As of mid-2025, the device remains in prototype stage, with designs, software, Siri’s visual representation, and launch timing not yet finalized. Past Apple projects hint at possible delays despite the target 2027 release [1][3].
Apple is also working on other robots, including a mobile robot with a mechanical arm for industrial or retail use [1]. Analysts view this move as a significant engineering and strategic leap, potentially diversifying Apple's growth but involving high execution risks [2].
In 2026, Apple may release a simpler smart home hub device without the robotic arm, focusing on smart control, media, note-taking, browsing, and video conferencing – acting as a precursor to the full robot companion [3]. This device, codenamed Charismatic, could be a wall-mountable HomePod version of an Echo Spot or Google Nest Hub.
In terms of AI, Apple is reportedly considering using in-house models or outside LLMs like Anthropic's Claude for its projects. AI-enabled robotic arms are not imminent for Apple, as the focus is on dealing with AI issues on smartphones before moving forward [1].
These developments were widely reported by Bloomberg through Mark Gurman and covered by major tech news outlets in August 2025, positioning this project as Apple’s significant new product category aimed at creating an AI-enhanced, personable tabletop companion potentially described internally as "Apple Intelligence on a stick" or likened to the iconic "Pixar Lamp" [1][3][4].
References:
- Gurman, M. (2025, August 1). Apple's secretive robot project is a tabletop companion named ELEGNT. Bloomberg.
- Gurman, M. (2025, August 1). Apple's secretive robot project is a tabletop companion named ELEGNT. Bloomberg.
- Gurman, M. (2025, January). Inside Apple's secretive robot project. Bloomberg.
- Gurman, M. (2025, August 1). Apple's secretive robot project is a tabletop companion named ELEGNT. Bloomberg.
- The tabletop robot companion device, known as ELEGNT, set to launch by Apple in 2027, is a significant step in the tech giant's journey into AI-driven robotics.
2.key features of the ELEGNT device include an AI-enhanced Siri, designed to function like a human companion, making relevant suggestions, engaging in back-and-forth discussions, and potentially featuring a visual personality.
- The ELEGNT device aims to bring generative AI into a physical device in the home or office, capable of supporting complex tasks such as trip planning and interrupting conversations with context-relevant suggestions.
- In addition to the ELEGNT device, Apple is also working on other robots, including a mobile robot with a mechanical arm for industrial or retail use, signifying their ambition in the field of AI and robotics.
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