New report on ‘HomeView Ultra’ product covers features, pricing, more

Apple's upcoming 'HomeView Ultra' product is set to arrive in homes next year, according to a report by The Information. The new innovation is part of the company's robotics project and is expected to come with a nine-inch swiveling screen similar to a Pixar lamp, as described by Aaron Tilley, the author of the report. Initially launched in 2019, the robot, known internally as J595, was initially designed for video calls with a robotic arm allowing it to follow users in a room.

However, the focus shifted when Apple executives desired to equip it with AI capabilities, leading to its current design featuring a camera and sensors for autonomous navigation and environmental awareness. The robot could potentially turn on lights and even attempt to interact with objects like cats, ensuring it doesn't accidentally bump into things.

Despite much of the hardware being completed over the past two years, software development is currently the main obstacle preventing a launch. Pricing is estimated around $1,000, but component costs could push it higher. Sources suggest the product will be branded under 'HomeView Ultra', though Apple has shown reluctance to introduce 'Ultra' products before. Though Apple aims to launch HomeView Ultra next year, it might be delayed to 2028.