Apple’s ‘Ultra’ smart home robot might have to wait until 2028

Apple has reportedly delayed the launch of its rumored smart home robot until next year at the earliest or possibly even 2028, according to The Information. It says the robot’s hardware “has been finished for around two years,” but that the software isn’t ready. The device’s software team has reportedly pushed to delay the launch and “attempted to strip back some proposed features and focus the product on a few capabilities related to FaceTime and automating home tasks, like switching on a light.” According to The Information, the device is codenamed J595, but former Apple employees predict it will be called the “HomeView Ultra,” taking after the new HomeView smart display that launched last month. The robot might cost significantly more than the HomeView, though, at around $1,000, potentially more depending on price hikes for RAM and other components. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said in 2024 that the robot could have a stationary, tabletop design resembling Pixar’s famous lamp. The Information says it will have a 9-inch display that swivels around on a robotic arm, with cameras and sensors for things like following you around during a FaceTime call.