# Apple may launch $1,000 home robot for FaceTime and lights by 2027

Digest AI · Business & Funding · published 2026-11-02T18:32:21Z

Canonical: https://digestai.news/story/apple-may-launch-1-000-home-robot-for-facetime-and-lights-by-2027

## Summary

Apple’s new CEO, John Ternus, is reportedly pushing the company’s household robot effort. The first product, code‑named J595, could be called HomeView Ultra and is designed to roam autonomously, support FaceTime calls, and switch lights when someone enters a room.

Sources say Apple plans to launch the robot in 2027 at a price of $1,000 or more, though delays could push it to 2028. The project began in 2018 and received approval from former CEO Tim Cook. Engineers are working to add more capabilities beyond FaceTime, but the robot’s current feature set appears limited compared to existing smart home devices.

Ternus also backs a separate Apple project aimed at household‑task robots such as folding clothes, though it is unclear whether Apple intends a general‑purpose humanoid robot. The focus on a limited‑purpose device is seen as safer and more realistic at this stage.

## Key points

- Apple plans a $1,000 home robot called HomeView Ultra for 2027
- The robot will roam, support FaceTime calls, and control lights
- Apple’s team includes about 10 roboticists and 300 software engineers

## Why it matters

Apple’s entry into the smart‑home robot market could reshape consumer expectations for integrated AI devices, but the high price and limited features raise questions about market viability.

## Sources

1. [Coming in 2027: Apple’s $1,000 home robot for FaceTime and switching on lights](https://arstechnica.com/apple/2026/11/apples-roaming-home-robot-may-do-facetime-switch-lights-on-and-yell-at-your-cat) (Ars Technica AI, 2026-11-02)

Part of the developing story: [Apple's HomeView Smart Home Display Launch](https://digestai.news/thread/apple-unveils-homeview-demo-with-siri-and-facial-recognition-for-up-to-six-users) (4 stories)

## Cite

Digest AI, "Apple may launch $1,000 home robot for FaceTime and lights by 2027", 2 November 2026, https://digestai.news/story/apple-may-launch-1-000-home-robot-for-facetime-and-lights-by-2027

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