AI takes center stage at Apple with a Pixar Lamp-inspired robot, an advanced Siri, and home safety innovation
Apple is set to revive its reputation for innovation with a new generation of AI-enhanced products, as the tech giant unveils its latest strategy focused on next-generation Siri, AI-powered hardware, home security expansion, and strategic partnerships.
Next-generation Siri
Apple is developing a vastly improved Siri, powered by advanced large language models (LLMs) similar to ChatGPT and Google's Gemini. This "LLM Siri" will offer continuous, human-like conversations and the ability to complete more complex tasks. Initially planned for earlier releases, it has been delayed and is now expected in 2026.
AI-powered hardware
Apple is preparing new hardware integrating AI, including a smart speaker with a display set to arrive in 2026 and a tabletop robot designed as a virtual companion that can swivel to engage users. The robot aims to redefine Apple’s smart home presence and is targeted for 2027.
Home security expansion
Apple plans to launch AI-powered home-security cameras integrated into a new Apple-designed security system to automate home functions and deepen ecosystem stickiness.
Strategic AI partnerships
Apple is considering a hybrid AI approach, combining in-house efforts (including exploring a trillion-parameter AI model) with external partnerships, notably a potential deal with Google involving the Gemini AI model. This partnership could accelerate Apple’s AI roadmap but carries risks like dependency and regulatory scrutiny.
AI integration across devices
Apple continues to use AI agents that provide private, on-device intelligence for deeply personalized and secure experiences integrated throughout its ecosystem.
New Devices
- J490 Smart Display: Apple plans to launch a non-robotic smart display, code-named J490, as soon as next year. The device will run a new multiuser operating system called Charismatic, centered on clock faces and widgets.
- J450 Battery-Powered Camera: Apple's home security lineup will include a battery-powered camera, code-named J450, featuring facial recognition and infrared sensors.
- Tabletop Robot: Prototypes of the robot feature a 7-inch horizontal display on a motorized arm that extends half a foot. The tabletop robot is part of Apple's push into artificial intelligence with new devices across the home and personal tech markets.
- Video Call Control: During video calls, users could steer the robot's view using an iPhone.
Siri Upgrades
- Siri Overhaul (Linwood): A major Siri overhaul, code-named Linwood, is underway, using large language models to make the assistant more responsive and personal.
- AI-Powered Visual Personality (Bubbles): Developers are working on an AI-powered visual personality for Siri under a project called "Bubbles."
- App Intents: Siri will remain the main input method, enhanced with an upgrade called App Intents for precise voice control.
Other Initiatives
- Doorbells with Facial Recognition: Apple is exploring doorbells with facial recognition.
- Charismatic Interface: Charismatic blends elements of Apple TV and Apple Watch interfaces. The system uses face recognition to tailor layouts and content to each user.
- Robot as a Virtual Companion: The robot is designed to act as a virtual companion and follow users in a room, tracking conversations.
This multi-pronged strategy aims to restore Apple's reputation for innovation after recent setbacks, including delays in AI feature rollouts, the Vision Pro headset’s slow sales, and criticism over missing earlier AI waves. CEO Tim Cook has emphasized the strength and excitement of the product pipeline, which includes these AI-driven hardware and software initiatives.
The tech giant's new strategy also includes the integration of AI in art, as they are developing an AI-powered visual personality for Siri under the project name "Bubbles."
In addition, Apple's home-security expansion involves AI-powered home-security cameras, a new addition to their planned AI-driven hardware, designed to automate home functions and deepen the ecosystem's stickiness.
