Apple plans to launch a consumer-focused desktop robot product by 2027.
According to Zhitong Finance APP, reports suggest that Apple (AAPL.US) plans to launch a consumer-oriented desktop robot product by 2027. This device will be equipped with a 9-inch display mounted on an electric arm capable of autonomous movement and rotation. Designed to follow users or adjust angles during interactions, it is expected to be positioned for use on desks and in kitchens to assist with household chores or work tasks. The desktop robot will enhance interactivity through motors, sensors, an upgraded Siri artificial intelligence, and a screen similar to an iPad.
Some analysts believe that Apple’s significant move into the consumer-grade desktop robotics field marks another “pivotal moment” in the embodiment of artificial intelligence, potentially prompting the company to develop more products that challenge humanoid robots and other physical AI offerings, thereby capturing investor attention.
A recent report by Morgan Stanley indicates that, based on discussions with institutional, corporate, and private wealth clients, their analysts have concluded that embodied artificial intelligence (Robotaxis, drones, humanoid robots) is “breaking out.” Analysts added that they have recently encountered some extremely unconventional concepts, with AI’s migration into the physical world turning many previously science-fiction-like ideas into reality. For instance, exoskeletons combined with brain implants can provide physical capabilities beyond human limits; genetically modified brain cells can respond to external stimuli, connecting human thoughts to high-bandwidth AI communication systems. The most startling revelation came from a private client — pregnancy robots, whose mission is to incubate human embryos to full term and complete childbirth.
The further emergence of embodied AI is expected to intensify competition for Tesla (TSLA.US), which has long been invested in this area. However, in Morgan Stanley’s view, Tesla remains a high-quality investment in the sector. Ahead of Tesla’s upcoming Q3 earnings release, Morgan Stanley maintained its “Overweight” rating on the stock, with a target price of $410.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk recognized the opportunities in embodied AI and robotics technology over a decade ago. The Tesla Optimus humanoid robot underwent multiple upgrades within just one year, from its debut in 2024 to the third-generation model scheduled for release in 2025. In September this year, at the annual “All-in Summit,” Musk disclosed new details about Optimus V3 — the Optimus V3 robot is being designed to achieve “human-level hand dexterity” and is equipped with “advanced AI capable of understanding physical reality.”
Tesla plans to launch the third-generation humanoid robot Optimus by the end of 2025 and anticipates beginning large-scale mass production in 2026. This plan broadens the commercial application prospects of humanoid robot technology, further solidifying Tesla’s leading position in automation and robotics. Musk expects that by 2030, annual production of Optimus will reach one million units.
Tesla describes the introduction and large-scale production plan of Optimus as a revolutionary development. Musk noted on social media that he believes up to 80% of Tesla’s future corporate value may derive from this autonomous humanoid robot.
At the same time, Tesla is steadily expanding its autonomous taxi business. Musk and other Tesla executives have remained relatively silent regarding the progress of launching autonomous taxis in Austin. However, Tesla observers have noticed new job postings for operators involved in assisted driving and fully autonomous taxis in Aurora/Denver, Colorado, and Chicago, Illinois. This suggests there may be noteworthy details regarding Tesla’s expansion of its autonomous taxi operations.