Apple Inc. AAPL has made a tabletop robot prototype with lifelike, anime-style movements, hinting at a future home assistant that could blend personality with functionality.
What Happened: Last month, a team of Apple robotics researchers unveiled a prototype of a lamp-like tabletop robot capable of making lifelike movements and expressively interacting with users.
The research was published on Apple's Machine Learning Research website and first reported by Macrumors. It explores how motion and expression-driven interactions can improve user engagement.
In a demonstration video, the robot showcases several intuitive features. For example, when asked about the weather, it first looks outside before answering. When asked about going on a hike without it, the robot reacts with a sad expression.
It also adjusts its position to improve lighting for iPhone photography. As a helpful assistant, it nudges a mug toward the user to remind them to drink water. When it notices someone assembling a 3D printer, it projects a tutorial on a nearby wall. For entertainment, the robot plays music and dances, acting as a social companion.
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The research team—including Yuhan Hu, Peide Huang, Mouli Sivapurapu, and Jian Zhang—found that these expressive, personality-driven movements significantly enhance user interaction compared to conventional function-driven responses.
Why It Matters: This aligns with previous reports from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, who said Apple was developing a smart tabletop device with an “iPad-like display” attached to a “robotic limb,” potentially launching in 2026 or 2027.
Apple’s foray into robotics is part of a broader strategy to diversify its product offerings and explore new revenue streams. The company’s development of a tabletop home device suggests a shift towards creating multifunctional home gadgets.
Apple is also reportedly planning to enter smart home technology with the development of a Face ID smart doorbell, anticipated by late 2025.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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