With the iPhone 17 set to be released in early September, we’re getting a steady stream of Apple rumors, news, and potential leaks — many of which aren’t worth writing about. But when Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman drops a new update, we pay close attention.
Case in point: The trusted Apple oracle reports today that Apple is planning a major push into the smart home market, with AI-powered smart speakers, security cameras, and, intriguingly, an Apple robot.
Before you let your imagination go too far, we should note that Gurman describes it as a “tabletop robot.” Specifically, a tabletop robot that “resembles an iPad mounted on a movable limb.”
The new products would come with a more conversational, AI version of Siri, which would be able to talk to users and accomplish tasks. According to multiple reports from outlets like the New York Times and Bloomberg, building an AI version of Siri has proven extremely difficult for Apple, which has so far lagged far, far behind in the artificial intelligence race.
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As Google, Meta, and OpenAI develop new models and AI-based products, Apple’s generative AI offerings are limited to modest Apple Intelligence features on some of its devices. For iOS 26, rather than introducing its own AI model, Apple will be working with OpenAI’s new GPT-5 model.
However, as Bloomberg reports, Apple is now “plotting its artificial intelligence comeback,” with the tabletop robot slash virtual companion at the center. The new AI-powered smart home devices from Apple could potentially arrive in 2027, Gurman says, citing Apple insiders.
In the smart home space, Apple has had some success with Apple TV streaming devices and its HomePod smart speakers. Still, rival tech companies like Amazon and Google have a much larger presence in this category.
However, Apple could be a formidable competitor in this space thanks to its brand loyalty, widely adopted operating systems, and signature product design. Of course, AI devices also have a rocky history with consumers, and a tabletop robot could be too little, too late in the AI arms race.
