Apple working on building a humanoid robot, to take on Tesla's Optimus

Apple has always been known for pushing the boundaries of technology, but could humanoid robots be its next big thing? If recent rumours are to be believed, the Cupertino giant might be tinkering with the idea of building its own robot to rival Tesla’s Optimus. While Apple has no official word on this, industry insiders are already buzzing about what such a project could mean for the future of consumer tech.

While Apple is a leader in innovation, diving into robotics — especially humanoid ones — is no small feat. If they’re really working on a humanoid robot, it’ll be interesting to see if it turns out to be another game-changer or just a futuristic experiment.

A tough industry to crack

Building humanoid robots is anything but easy. Companies have been trying for decades, and only a few have come close to making robots that move and function convincingly. Honda’s Asimo was a big step forward in the late ‘90s, impressing the world with its ability to shake hands, dance, and even climb stairs. But even with all that progress, Honda eventually pulled the plug on the project.

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More recently, companies like Unitree, Figure 01, and 1X have entered the game, each promising breakthroughs. Some claim they’re almost ready to put a humanoid robot in people’s homes, but that’s still a stretch. Realistically, most advanced humanoid robots today are still research projects, not household assistants.

Apple’s robotics ambitions

Apple is no stranger to cutting-edge tech. With products like the Vision Pro and its powerful Apple Silicon chips, the company has proven time and again that it can disrupt industries. However, robotics is a whole different ballgame. Unlike companies that have been working on robotics for decades, Apple’s experience in the field is limited.

That said, Apple has reportedly been working on a robotic home device — a mix between a HomePod, an iPad, and a swiveling robotic assistant. It’s designed to interact with users, take commands, and act as a smart home hub. If Apple is serious about humanoid robots, this home assistant could be a stepping stone toward something bigger.

Could we see a Steve Jobs bot?

If Apple does go all-in on humanoid robots, what would it look like? Some tech enthusiasts have floated the idea of a robot inspired by Steve Jobs himself. Imagine a humanoid assistant with Jobs’ signature black turtleneck, jeans, and Reeboks, programmed with his famous sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude. It’s a fun thought, though not very likely.

For now, the humanoid robot idea remains a rumour, and it’s unclear whether Apple is seriously pursuing it. But with Tesla’s Optimus already making waves in the robotics world, it wouldn’t be surprising if Apple wants to throw its hat into the ring. Whether it actually delivers a humanoid robot — or just refines its smart home ecosystem with robotic elements — remains to be seen. Either way, if Apple is involved, expectations will be sky-high.