Remember the Will Smith movie, “I, Robot”? Turns out Apple might be planning its own “iRobot” as well. According to reputed Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company is exploring the development of humanoid and non-humanoid robots. If this is true, it could mark a huge departure from the typical consumer electronics the firm is known for.
A brand-new product category
As outlandish as this sounds, it’s actually kind of true. Apple just published a research paper last month on human interactions with “non-anthropomorphic” robots. This suggests that at the very least, Apple seems to be interested in the concept. Apple even chose a Pixar-style lamp as its “non-anthropomorphic” robot of choice.
Apple’s venture into robotics is not entirely surprising. While the iPhone is one of the company’s best-selling products, Apple probably knows that it won’t last forever. Eventually, the communication landscape will change. Maybe phones won’t even be a thing 10 to 20 years from now.
Plus, the company has spent years developing AI and machine learning products like Apple Intelligence and Siri. So, an Apple humanoid robot doesn’t seem entirely out of the question. Entering the robotics market would represent a huge shift in Apple’s core businesses. The company has established its reputation through its consumer electronics, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac lineup of laptops and desktops.
Creating a humanoid robot could also present a whole new set of challenges to Apple. This includes the design of the robot, the mechanics of the robot, and, more importantly, its manufacturing.
Still, many people doubted Apple when the first iPhone debuted. But look at where the company is today. Maybe we shouldn’t be so quick to discount them just yet.
But don’t get too excited
However, according to Kuo, Apple’s research in robots remains in the early proof-of-concept stage. Kuo expressed his surprise at how Apple has been so open about sharing its interest in robotics. But he mentions that it’s probably a way for Apple to attract talent. He also notes that Apple has/had several products in the proof-of-concept stage. One of these includes the rumored foldable iPhone, which could debut as soon as next year.
Kuo also makes reference to the Apple Car, another company’s product that never progressed beyond the conceptual stage. The analyst claims that mass production of the robot won’t start until 2028 or later (if at all) but cautions that it could end up being shelved like the Apple Car.
