Apple’s $1,000 home robot could follow you around during video calls
Apple is reportedly working on a robotic smart home display that can turn towards users, follow their movements during video calls and control household devices automatically. The product could cost around $1,000 and may not arrive until 2028.
According to The Information, the device carries the internal codename J595. Former Apple employees believe the company could name it HomeView Ultra, although Apple has not confirmed the branding or release plans.
The robot reportedly features a 9-inch screen attached to a moving arm that can rotate 360 degrees. Its design resembles a desk lamp, particularly the animated lamp seen in Pixar’s opening logo.
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Built-in cameras and sensors would allow the display to track people around a room during FaceTime calls. The system could also respond to its surroundings, such as switching on lights when someone enters.
Apple reportedly wants the robot to recognise objects nearby and avoid hitting them when moving its screen.
Why Apple may delay the launch
The report said that Apple teams have disagreed over which AI features should be included in the first version and which should be saved for future models.
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The project originally focused on video calls, but Apple later expanded its plans to include more advanced AI functions and automatic home controls.
The company reportedly aims to introduce the robot in 2027, although customers may have to wait until 2028. The final price could also exceed $1,000 depending on component costs.
The robotic display would be a more expensive alternative to Apple’s standard HomeView, which the company unveiled in October 2026.
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Unlike the regular HomeView, the proposed robotic model would physically move its screen and respond more actively to activity around the house.
