Following the decision to halt its electric car project in February, Apple Inc. is reportedly shifting its focus to personal robotics, with plans for a mobile robot that can accompany individuals in their homes.
According to a report by Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, sources familiar with the matter suggest that robotics could become a significant initiative for the tech giant. In addition to a home robot that tracks people around their living spaces, Apple is said to be exploring the development of an innovative tabletop device that utilizes robotics to move a display.
While these robotics endeavors are still in their early stages, it remains uncertain whether any of these products will ultimately be released to the public. The work is said to be underway within Apple’s hardware division and its artificial intelligence and machine-learning team, signaling the company’s interest in pushing the boundaries of technology.
The tabletop device, which has been in the pipeline for some time, was initially presented to Apple executives several years ago. The concept involved a display that mimics the movements of a person during a FaceTime call, along with the ability to focus on an individual within a group during video conferences.
Despite showcasing promising features, Apple executives have expressed concerns about the market demand for such a high-end product. Technical challenges related to the stability of a robotic motor on a small stand have also posed obstacles, alongside internal disagreements among company leaders regarding the project’s future.
The decision to explore robotics comes on the heels of Apple’s decision to discontinue its ambitious car development project, known as Project Titan. Following the reshuffling of approximately 2,000 employees from the car initiative to other areas within Apple, the company seems to be leveraging the expertise of its hardware engineers in novel ways.
As Apple seeks its next groundbreaking venture, the foray into personal robotics underscores its commitment to innovation and the integration of advanced technologies into consumers’ daily lives. While the path ahead may be uncertain, Apple’s exploration of robotics holds the promise of introducing transformative products that redefine the tech landscape.
