Apple seems to be expanding on its future home offers as rumors of an iPad-like robotic home device have hit the internet. According to these reumors, this device can serve as the next smart home companion robot. It is claimed to have multiple features that will benefit users, including a robotic arm. The device will reportedly focus on being an all-in-one command center for homes.
Other tech companies such as Google and Samsung have been focusing on smart homes for quite sometime now. While many may say that the Cupertino-based company has yet to catch up, it seems it is now making an effort should the rumors of this new robotic device be true.
Apple Robot for Home? Tabletop iPad-Like Device Rumored
Bloomberg reported that Apple is now moving forward with its plans to develop more smart home experiences, centering on robotics as its next step toward what it will offer in the future. The device that Apple is now rumored to be working on has been described as a tabletop iPad-like robot for the home.
According to analyst Mark Gurman, this device will reportedly be an all-in-one machine meant to assist users with various tasks at home. Among its main features reportedly include a smart home command center, a remote-controlled security tool, and a videoconferencing device.
The report claims that the Cupertino-based tech giant now has this device under development. The report also claims that this device may cost around $1,000, more or less.
Other Speculations About the Reported Smart Home Companion
It has also been rumored that Apple's new smart home companion will allow the iPad-like display to have an actuator, which is meant to help it move 360 degrees. This will also allow the display to be tilted up and down.
Previous speculations have focused on Apple's development of a mobile robot that has the capacity to follow users around, such as the Amazon Astro. Other reports have also noted that members of the Apple Car team have now joined the company's robotics development.
Apple's Smart Home Development Speculations
Smart home is now a growing market as many tech companies introduce more and more products that greatly improve one's experiences at home. Typically, these products are all conveniently and efficiently controlled by a central hub or by smartphones.
One of the most famous developments made by Apple in that qualifies is the leaked HomePod with Display. It was said to be an iPad-like device attached to the Apple home speaker. It has been rumored that Apple has other products in development. However, these have been kept private by the tech giant.
As mentioned, it has also been claimed by reports that Apple intends on focusing more robotics, which has been dubbed as the "next frontier" of the company. This is believed to greatly expand what the tech giant can offer when it comes to home necessities.
As of press time, there are only a handful of first-party devices from Apple that offer smart home capabilities. However, it offers third-party tech available in its physical stores. Given the introduction of Apple Intelligence, the company's goal of soon offering smart home devices are becoming more and more of a reality.
It remains to be seen if the rumored tabletop robot with an iPad-like display will become a reality, but it is an exciting prospect nonetheless.