Apple HomeView Ultra: Details Emerge on New 360-Degree Smart Home Robot

Apple is actively developing a larger, robotic version of its HomeView smart home hub, which has been internally referred to in rumors as the "HomeView Ultra" or "HomeView Max." According to a new report by Aaron Tilley of The Information, the device aims to bridge advanced robotics with home automation.

Key takeaways from the report: - The prototype features a 9-inch display mounted on a swiveling arm with 360-degree rotation. - The design draws inspiration from Apple's iconic iMac G4 and Pixar's lamp mascot. - Expected launch pricing in the United States is around $1,000. - The release is tentatively targeted for 2027 or 2028 due to software feature debates.

Design and Autonomous Features

The current prototype's hardware design heavily mirrors Apple's classic iMac G4, featuring a hemispherical base and a flexible display arm. The 9-inch screen can swivel a full 360 degrees to track interactions or face users. Unlike stationary hubs, this model is designed to be fully aware of its environment using advanced cameras and sensors.

The autonomous capabilities will allow the device to perform proactive tasks, such as turning on lights when someone enters a room or deterring pets from jumping onto furniture. Apple has engineered the device to safely navigate around household objects without accidental collisions, blending standard FaceTime utility with physical movement.

Development Hurdles and Release Timeline

Although the hardware for the device has largely been finalized for roughly two years, internal disagreements within Apple have delayed the project. Teams have debated which software features should debut on the first-generation model versus being pushed to a rumored second-generation version currently under discussion.

Apple hopes to bring the larger HomeView device to the U.S. market in 2027 with an estimated price tag around $1,000, though development roadblocks could push the launch window to 2028. The tech giant has also explored other robotic concepts over the years—including a wheel-following home assistant, an indoor flying drone, and a clothes-folding robot—though their commercial futures remain uncertain.

Market Implications and Outlook

As smart home ecosystems evolve, the introduction of a robotic desktop hub represents a bold push into consumer robotics for Apple. If successful, it could redefine interactive home automation, merging personal assistants with physical mobility in a way traditional smart speakers cannot match.