Apple may have just given us a peek at the future of home robotics—and it’s surprisingly charming. A new research project from Apple’s Machine Learning division showcases a robot lamp that doesn’t just light up a room but also interacts with users in delightfully expressive ways.

In a recent research paper titled ELEGNT: Expressive and Functional Movement Design for Non-anthropomorphic Robot, Apple’s team introduced a prototype designed to move with emotion and intention. The goal? To make robots feel more natural and engaging in everyday life.

A demo video shows two versions of the lamp: one labeled “Functional” and the other “Expressive.” The functional version does what it’s told—no more, no less.

But the expressive one dances when music plays, looks outside before answering a weather question, and even nudges a water glass when it reminds the user to stay hydrated. In the most endearing moment, it slumps in mock disappointment when told it can’t come along for a hike.

Apple researchers Yuhan Hu, Peide Huang, Mouli Sivapurapu, and Jian Zhang found that these lifelike movements significantly boosted user engagement. It turns out that a little personality goes a long way in making robots feel more like helpful companions rather than just high-tech tools. I mean, we already know this is the growing trend, especially when you look at robot pet programming and customization alone.

Going back, Apple’s robot lamp may not be its only plan for home robotics. Reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggest that the company is working on a tabletop robotic device, potentially featuring an iPad-like screen on a robotic arm.

It’s expected to function as a personal assistant, a FaceTime hub, and a smart home control center. If those reports hold up, we could see something hit the market around 2026 or 2027 with a price tag of roughly $1,000.

Regardless if it’s a robot lamp, robot vacuum, or a robot assistant, one thing is certain: the future of home robotics is looking more engaging and interactive year on year — and we know that Apple isn’t alone in this quest of integrating robots into our daily lives.

In the wake of abandoning its ambitious electric car project, Apple is reportedly venturing into the realm of personal robots. The company is aiming to develop these personal robots as possible assistants to users within their homes. According to sources familiar with the project, engineers at Apple are delving into the creation of a robot prototype designed to accompany individuals and provide practical assistance.

This strategic shift follows recent reports disclosing Apple’s decision to halt its decade-long pursuit of an electric car. The company’s covert electric vehicle (EV) endeavors, which never received an official acknowledgment, faced numerous challenges before being officially scrapped. In light of these developments, Apple has purportedly redirected resources, transferring personnel from its defunct car division to spearhead ventures in generative artificial intelligence (AI).

Nevertheless, Apple’s move to start exploring personal robots is a testament to its commitment to advancing AI technologies and machine learning.

The envisioned project remains in its early stages, with uncertainties lingering over whether it will ultimately materialize into a marketable product bearing the iconic Apple brand. This is in line with Apple’s mission to create a new line of products that will bring in money to the company.

The project of developing personal robots falls under the purview of Apple’s hardware engineering division, in conjunction with its AI and machine learning group. While details regarding the scope and functionality of the envisioned robots remain scarce, industry analysts anticipate that Apple may unveil further insights into its AI endeavors at the upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).

Apple’s pivot towards AI and robotics mirrors a broader trend among tech giants, with companies like Google, Microsoft, Meta (formerly Facebook), and Amazon intensifying efforts to harness the potential of AI-driven products and services. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, the race to innovate in AI remains a focal point for industry leaders worldwide.

Despite repeated attempts to solicit comments, Apple remained tight-lipped about the reported initiative of developing personal robots.