Apple has delayed the launch of its rumored smart home robot until 2028 at the earliest, according to The Information, as the device's software is not yet ready despite hardware being complete for approximately two years.
The Information reports the robot, codenamed J595, may be named HomeView Ultra and will feature a 9-inch display that swivels on a robotic arm. The device will be equipped with cameras and sensors designed to follow users during FaceTime calls and automate home tasks such as switching on lights. The software team has pushed for the delay and attempted to strip back proposed features to focus on core capabilities.
Former Apple employees predict the device will carry the HomeView Ultra name, aligning with the new HomeView smart display launched last month. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman noted in 2024 that the robot could feature a stationary, tabletop design resembling Pixar's famous lamp. The Information suggests the robot might cost around $1,000, with the price potentially increasing depending on RAM and other component price hikes.
The delay reflects the challenges of aligning hardware readiness with mature software functionality in the consumer robotics market.
