Apple's "Ultra" Smart Home Robot Pushed to 2028
Apple's highly anticipated smart home robot faces a potential delay until 2028, with software readiness issues and shifting features complicating the rollout.
Radwan AbdulhadiEditor and technology writer
Launch Delays and Software Challenges
Apple has reportedly delayed the launch of its rumored smart home robot until next year at the earliest or possibly even 2028, according to a report published by <a href="https://www.theinformation.com/articles/inside-apples-slog-create-first-robot">The Information</a>. While the hardware for the device has allegedly been finished for around two years, the software side of the product is reportedly not ready. Because of these software readiness issues, the device's software team has pushed to delay the launch.
In addition to pushing back the timeline, the software team has attempted to strip back some proposed features. The focus for the product is now being narrowed down to a few core capabilities related to FaceTime and automating home tasks, such as switching on a light. These ongoing software challenges highlight the complex hurdles Apple faces in bringing its first major robotic consumer product to market.
Codenames, Branding, and Pricing Expectations
According to <a href="https://www.theinformation.com/articles/inside-apples-slog-create-first-robot">The Information</a>, the device is currently codenamed J595. Former Apple employees have predicted that the final commercial product will be called the "HomeView Ultra," taking after the <a href="https://www.theverge.com/tech/1009704/apple-homeview-smart-display-first-look">new HomeView smart display</a> that recently launched last month.
The robotic device is expected to cost significantly more than the standard HomeView. Industry tracking and reports indicate it could cost over $1,000, with the final price tag potentially climbing even higher depending on market fluctuations, component costs, and <a href="https://www.theverge.com/news/839353/pc-ram-shortage-pricing-spike-news">price hikes for RAM</a> and other raw hardware parts.
Hardware Design and Core Functionality
Early details regarding the physical form factor of the device have trickled out over the past couple of years. Back in 2024, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that the robot could feature <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/14/24220475/apple-next-big-project-tabletop-robot-ipad">a stationary, tabletop design</a>. Observers have frequently compared its anticipated aesthetic and physical movement to <a href="https://www.theverge.com/news/607663/apple-smart-home-robot-research-video">Pixar’s famous lamp</a>.
According to details outlined by <a href="https://www.theinformation.com/articles/inside-apples-slog-create-first-robot">The Information</a>, the upcoming Apple home product will incorporate a 9-inch display mounted on a robotic arm. This screen is designed to swivel around, utilizing integrated cameras and onboard sensors to perform functions such as following users around the room during an active FaceTime video call.
Broader Ecosystem Context and Timeline Outlook
The extended timeline for the J595 robot reflects Apple's broader strategy in developing ambient computing and home automation products. While the company has steadily expanded its lineup of smart home and audio accessories—such as smaller smart speakers and displays—advancing into motorized robotics represents a totally new frontier for its hardware and software engineering teams.
With the hardware reportedly sitting completed for roughly two years, the bottleneck remains entirely tied to software refinement, user interface logic, and automated response capabilities. As the engineering teams work to streamline features around FaceTime integration and basic home automation, consumers and industry watchers will have to wait until late 2027 or 2028 to see whether the HomeView Ultra ultimately makes its commercial debut.
Sources
- The VergeApple’s ‘Ultra’ smart home robot might have to wait until 2028
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