Last year, Apple announced plans for a tabletop robot with AI capabilities, including a robotic arm holding an iPad for interactive use. However, new reports reveal that delays in development have arisen due to issues with Siri, the voice assistant technology used in the device.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman shared insights on Apple's tabletop robot project, codenamed J595, which features a movable iPad display for various functions like videoconferencing and smart home control. Additionally, a lower-priced variant named J490 without the robotic arm is in the works, but its release is also affected by the ongoing Siri problems.
Despite the setbacks, Apple aims to overcome the Siri challenges and still plans to launch the J490 model by the end of the year. The higher-end J595 model with the robotic arm may follow in the coming years, with some complex features being temporarily removed to expedite its development.
The issues with Siri have not only impacted the tabletop robot project but have also caused delays in the rollout of a new "personal Siri" feature that provides personalized assistance based on user messages and emails, now expected around 2026.
