Can an Apple a day keep the chores away?

In the not too distant future, an Apple a day could keep the household chores away, so to speak.

Reports are flooding the internet that the tech giant – which changed the world with the launch of its iPhone in 2007 – is developing smart robots for the home.

While Apple is looking at both humanoid and non-humanoids, the focus on may be on form rather than function, analysts say.

And mass production may not happen until 2028.

In a post on X, TF International Securities analyst Kuo Ming-chi said the indications are that Apple cares more about how users perceive and interact with robots rather than just their physical appearance, highlighting the importance of sensing hardware and software.

WHAT IS PROOF OF CONCEPT?

Kuo pointed out Apple's robots are still in the internal proof-of-concept or POC stage.

Notably, Apple has unusually shared some research findings early in the POC phase, possibly to attract talent, he pointed out.

The POC stage is where a company evaluates the feasibility of ideas and core technologies before launching a project.

These concepts could range from a humanoid robot that assists in household chores to a smart tabletop robot with a mechanical arm, according to reports.

Apple's rumored foldable phone is still in the POC phase, although many other projects such as the Apple Car have been halted during the stage, Kuo added.

Other reports indicate that the tabletop robot could hit the retail market as early as 2026.

FRANKIE FERNANDEZ AND GORDON YANG