Apple introduced artificial intelligence-based features, collectively known as Apple Intelligence, at its annual developer event (WWDC) in June, with the first wave of these features set to debut on iPhones, Macs, and iPads alongside next-generation platform updates later this year. Apple Intelligence is expected to then be extended to more devices in the ecosystem, including the HomePod. However, Bloomberg reported that instead of the HomePod,

Apple may launch the first home device to support Apple Intelligence in the form of a desktop robot. Robots are assumed to eat Apple Intelligence Siri introduced in WWDC. It seems that the Robot's road on the table is open by updating Siri. Apparently, the tabletop robot will have an iPad-like screen and will move around by mimicking the user's head movements, such as nodding. It should also have the ability to precisely lock onto a person in a crowd during a video call. The table-top robot will likely support voice controls and an improved version of Siri will power the device.

Previous reports by Bloomberg outlined Apple’s robotics projects and provided details about the table-top robot, suggesting that Apple has already started working on it. Bloomberg previously reported that while Apple is primarily focused on bringing the latest AI capabilities to its iPhones, iPads and MacBooks, it is also considering launching a new phase of its cloud-based approach to hardware AI for future hardware products, which could result in Apple releasing new hardware in categories such as robotics, augmented reality (AR) glasses and smart AirPods. Apple is reportedly already discussing humanoid robots with advanced artificial intelligence engines internally. Apple's Vision Pro mixed reality headset reportedly already uses artificial intelligence, and it's possible that Apple could use the same tech in its AR glasses and AI-powered hardware like AirPods.