Apple Inc., widely renowned for its high-quality devices, has decided to tackle its ‘next big thing,’ replacing its shelved electric vehicle project with cutting-edge home robotics, according to inside sources.
The tech giant, whose growth rate has experienced a slight stagnation, is researching personal and home robotics in a quest for innovative growth prospects. In the past few months, Apple’s engineers have initiated research into a portable robot that could accompany users around their homes.
The specifics of the project, privately termed the ‘skunk project,’ are still confidential. However, it’s been hinted that the company has also created an advanced table-top device that incorporates robotics, allowing a display to move around.
The projects, if successful, could transform the way we interact with technology at our homes, potentially making Apple a major player not just in consumer electronics but also in robotics and advanced AI.
However, these plans are not yet affirmed. They are still in the research and development phase, making it unclear whether or not they will eventually move forward to production.
Industry professionals are watching with interest, as so far, the home robotics market has remained relatively unexplored. Amazon previously ventured into this field in 2021 with “Astro,” a mobile tech device, but received a lukewarm response from consumers.
However, those familiar with Apple’s resilience in breaking into new markets and redefining technology don’t hastily rule out its success. Apple’s pioneering VR product, the Vision Pro, although debuted to mixed reviews, marked a significant step for tech entertainment. Therefore, there’s a possibility that Apple’s home devices could revolutionize the industry again.
The details of this development arrive courtesy of sources within the company, one of whom is Apple analyst Mark Gurman. The high-level team leading these efforts includes John Giannandrea, Apple’s vice president of machine learning and AI strategy, and two executives from the hardware group, Matt Costello, and Brian Lynch.
As expected, the competition in the home robotics market is heating up, with companies like Samsung planning to launch products like the home assistant Ballie by 2024. Will Apple be able to outpace its competitors? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure, Apple’s potential entry into the robotics sector promises to significantly redefine the tech and AI industry.
Information Box:
-Corporate involved: Apple Inc.
-Time Frame: Currently in the Research & Development phase
-Other Competitors: Amazon(Astro), Samsung (Ballie),Google (Table-top device)
-Previous Apple product (unsuccessful): Electric car project
-Current Apple product: Vision Pro (Mixed reviews)
-Involving Personnel: John Giannandrea, Matt Costello, Brian Lynch
-Level of development: Unknown
References:
1. Gizmodo: “Goodbye Apple Car, Hello Apple Home Robots”
2. Bloomberg: “Apple Explores Home Robotics as Potential ‘Next Big Thing’ After Car Fizzles”
3. ZDNet: “Apple reportedly exploring AI-powered home robots, including these two products”