Apple is working on developing a larger home version with robotic capabilities for the "HomeView" smart device, according to a new report published by journalist Aaron Tilley on "The Information" website, which is based in part on previous leaks by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. Names such as "HomeView Ultra" or "HomeView Max" are being circulated in rumors to refer to the new device, with the possibility of the commercial name changing upon official launch.
Technical details of the prototype indicate that the device is equipped with a 9-inch display mounted on a moving arm that allows the screen to rotate at a full angle of up to 360 degrees. The external design of the robot bears features inspired by traditional Apple computers, the "iMac G4" model, or the famous Pixar lamp. In addition to supporting standard essential functions such as FaceTime calls, the robot is designed to be aware of its surroundings and capable of acting autonomously using built-in cameras and sensors to avoid collisions with surrounding objects.
What actually changes in the anticipated device?
The device goes beyond the traditional concept of home control screens to enter the realm of interactive consumer robotics; as it can sense the movement of people in the room to turn on lights automatically, or even deal with pets by directing them to leave tables. On the hardware front, it is worth noting that the core components of the device were fixed about two years ago, but the project faced internal debates and disagreements regarding determining the software features that should be made available in the first generation versus those postponed to a later generation.
Availability and expected price
Apple aims to launch the larger home device during 2027 at an estimated price of about $1,000 in the American market, with the possibility of operational readiness being delayed until 2028. Apple has also discussed other robotic concepts ranging from wheeled devices to follow the user or fly inside the house, in addition to a dedicated robot for folding clothes, with no confirmed indicators regarding the commercial release of those concepts at the present time.