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

By · Via The Verge · Published by Everything Blog

In short

Apple's software team is advocating for the extended launch timeline to refine the device's core automation and communication tools before public rollout. Known internally as codename J595, former employees anticipate it will be branded as the HomeView Ultra following a recent smart display debut. The premium device is projected to command a price point of around or above $1,000 based on component costs such as RAM.

Key points

  • Software challenges have forced the company to delay the tabletop robot's launch potentia…: Software challenges have forced the company to delay the tabletop robot's launch potentially until 2028.
  • Apple is paring down ambitious features to prioritize fundamental capabilities like FaceT…: Apple is paring down ambitious features to prioritize fundamental capabilities like FaceTime calls and smart lighting.
  • High component expenses like RAM are expected to push the stationary device's retail pric…: High component expenses like RAM are expected to push the stationary device's retail price beyond $1,000.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

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.”

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

The HomeView-like tabletop robot could cost over $1,000, reports The Information.

The HomeView-like tabletop robot could cost over $1,000, reports The Information.

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…

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