Apple’s rumored smart home robot could be delayed until 2028

Apple has reportedly delayed the launch of its rumored smart home robot until next year at the earliest, or possibly 2028, according to The Information. The report says the robot’s hardware has been finished for around two years, but its software is not ready.

The device’s software team reportedly pushed to delay the launch and tried to cut some proposed features, focusing instead on FaceTime-related capabilities and automating home tasks such as switching on a light.

The Information says the device is codenamed J595. Former Apple employees predict it will be called “HomeView Ultra,” after the new HomeView smart display that launched last month. The robot could cost significantly more than HomeView, at around $1,000, and potentially more depending on price increases for RAM and other components.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said in 2024 that the robot could have a stationary tabletop design resembling Pixar’s famous lamp. The Information reports that it will have a nine-inch display that swivels on a robotic arm, with cameras and sensors to follow users during FaceTime calls.