Apple Ventures into Robotics: Launching First AI iPhone on September 10

Under Elon Musk's leadership, major international companies are racing into the robotics field. According to a recent report from Bloomberg on August 25, Apple is exploring a new line of robotics business. This new robot, codenamed J595, is not the humanoid robot that has garnered much discussion recently, but rather a desktop model. It appears to feature an iPad-like display and camera mounted on a robotic base, designed to enhance smart home experiences.

Reportedly, this product may launch around 2026 or 2027, with plans to eventually introduce a mobile robot and potentially a humanoid version over the next decade. Interestingly, years prior, Apple’s merger and acquisition lead, Adrian Perica, met with Boston Dynamics to discuss a possible acquisition, although talks didn't progress.

You might wonder how Apple's desktop robot, J595, will be utilized. According to Apple's vision, it serves a practical purpose for situations when using a MacBook or iPad isn't feasible—like when you need to type with your hands full, or can't find your computer during a meeting. The J595 can be equipped with robotic arms attached to an iPad, allowing users to manage phone calls or browse the web, even while their hands are occupied.

Imagine preparing apple pie in your kitchen while the iPad turns to face you. You could knead dough while using the robotic arm to check fermentation times, instead of smudging the iPad's screen with flour and oil. This highlights a distinct difference in approach between Apple and Tesla regarding robotics. Musk aims for rapid development with humanoid robots to replace humans in factories, while Apple focuses on integrating robotics into its existing product ecosystem.

Kevin Lynch, Apple's Vice President of Technology, stated, "Smart devices deliver the most value when they're within arm's reach." With Apple's entry into robotics, this strategic decision aligns with trends in autonomous driving and robotics which share underlying technologies. After deciding to discontinue its autonomous vehicle project, Apple redirected its significant investment and technological advancements into home robotics.

Moreover, Apple's existing expertise in sensors, chips, and AI for its devices can easily transfer to robotic applications, with established sales channels already in place. Rather than viewing emerging robotics companies like Figure and 1X as competitors, Apple seems more focused on rivaling Amazon and Google in the smart home sector, where it has historically lagged.

However, the high prices of desktop robots present a notable barrier to entry. To overcome this, Apple is working on enhancing technological barriers. For instance, it is developing a personalized voice assistant based on generative AI, akin to ChatGPT-4, which will elevate Siri's capabilities across various Apple devices, expected to launch by 2025.

Apple is also quietly hiring top robotics talent, led by Kevin Lynch, who previously oversaw the automotive team and watch software engineering. Recently, the company recruited several leading robotics experts from institutions like the Technion in Israel. As Apple’s executives reassess the current product lineup, they recognize the need for groundbreaking innovations amidst growing skepticism about existing products like the iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, and Apple Watch.

In addition to its robotics venture, Apple has announced a significant event scheduled for September 10. The event, titled "It's Glowtime," will take place at Apple's headquarters in Cupertino, California. This prominent launch event is expected to unveil the latest iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. Reports suggest that the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro series may feature larger screens and enhanced camera functionalities.

Most notably, this event will spotlight Apple Intelligence, showcasing how the company plans to integrate its AI tools into the new iPhone. While users of the iPhone 15 Pro Max already enjoy some AI capabilities, the iPhone 16 will mark Apple’s first truly AI-driven smart device. It appears that Apple is poised for a significant leap forward in the age of AI.