Apple Bets on Tabletop Robot, Lifelike Siri to Regain AI Edge

Core Insights - Apple is planning a significant AI comeback with a focus on a tabletop robot, an upgraded Siri, and a new smart speaker with a display [1][2] - The company aims to enhance its ecosystem with a desk-side companion robot expected in 2027 and a lower-cost smart display for home control anticipated as early as next year [2] - Apple shares experienced a rise following the announcement of these initiatives, which come in response to soft sales of the Vision Pro and criticism regarding its position in the generative AI market [3] Product Development - Apple is testing a redesigned Siri that utilizes large language models, potentially launching on iPhones and iPads next year [4] - A new multiuser home operating system named "Charismatic" is in development, featuring a visual Siri interface called "Bubbles" [4] - The company is also exploring external AI models, such as Anthropic's Claude, to enhance its assistant capabilities [4] Strategic Challenges - CEO Tim Cook expressed optimism about the product pipeline, indicating that some developments will be revealed soon [5] - Recent months have seen Apple facing challenges in AI, including investor impatience, talent departures, and delays in Siri upgrades [5] - Analysts have noted an "AI crisis" theme surrounding Apple, emphasizing the need for the company to accelerate its AI product releases to maintain its leadership in consumer technology [5]