Apple’s next big venture could be a move into the world of robotics, driven by the need to explore new product categories and expand its already considerable influence in people’s lives. The company, known for groundbreaking innovations like the iPhone and Apple Watch, is reportedly exploring robotics products, including a concept iPad mounted on a robotic arm. The move underscores Apple’s ambition to push the boundaries of technology into new and uncharted territory.
A new range of products
This foray into robotics is largely seen as a response to the challenge of introducing new, distinct products into its existing ecosystem. Apple’s previous major efforts, such as the Vision Pro and the highly anticipated but ultimately abandoned Apple Car, illustrate the company’s willingness to pursue ambitious areas, even if they don’t always pan out. Lessons learned from those initiatives, particularly the Apple Car, have apparently inspired Apple’s engineers to think about how mobile hardware could open up new possibilities.
In the Bloomberg newsletter In Sunday’s issue, Mark Gurman reminds us that it’s difficult to introduce a new product that’s distinctive and innovative enough to be worthwhile.
The concept of an iPad on a robotic arm, which has been talked about a lot in recent months, may seem like a small step, but it represents a bigger vision where hardware can adapt to the user’s needs, rather than the other way around. Imagine a device that can come to you when called upon or adjust its position for optimal use without needing to be manually repositioned. This type of technology could also improve experiences like video conferencing or remote monitoring, allowing users to interact with their devices in a more dynamic and flexible way. A sort of R2D2-style smart assistant, but with an Apple twist. Enough to catch up with (or even surpass) Amazon and Google, the market leaders.
Leading the effort is Kevin Lynch, Apple’s vice president of technology, who previously worked on the Apple Car project. Lynch is now working closely with Apple’s AI and hardware engineering teams to explore these new possibilities. The company is also bringing in outside experts, including talent from leading robotics companies, to accelerate its efforts. Technion and Boston Dynamics are reportedly contributing.
Additionally, Apple is reportedly developing a “generative AI-based human interface” for its potential robotic devices. This new interface could serve as a personality for these devices, potentially in collaboration with Siri, to create a seamless and consistent user experience across the Apple ecosystem.
While these developments are still in the concept stage, with a potential release planned for 2026 or 2027, they underscore Apple’s commitment to innovation, even in complicated areas. Apple is not afraid to invest large sums, because it knows it can win big if it succeeds.
For us, the next innovation that could please users is the Apple Ring, a connected ring that would bring some of the functionality of the Apple Watch at a reduced price and size.