Apple’s Rumored New Device Could Be a Game-Changer for Zoom Calls

Apple may be developing a new home device involving a moveable screen on the end of a robot arm, Bloomberg reported Wednesday.

Driven by Apple’s need for new revenue streams, the gadget could cost around $1,000 and launch by 2026 or 2027, tech reporter Mark Gurman writes. The rumored device seems to essentially be an iPad affixed to a mechanical arm that can automatically adjust its orientation, such as while the user is on a Zoom or FaceTime call.

While the device, if it’s ever released, seems geared toward domestic applications, it’s not hard to imagine a business owner using it to help juggle video meetings, inbound emails, and the myriad other demands of a busy workday.

Apple reportedly has hundreds of employees working on the new product which, insiders told Gurman, would serve as a “smart home command center, videoconferencing machine and remote-controlled home security tool” all in one.

The conceit evokes some of the items in Amazon’s Echo Show product line, which combine elements of smart speakers and tablets. 9to5Mac also notes that such a device would have hints of a pre-existing Apple feature called DockKit, which helps intelligently position motorized iPhone stands using body and facial tracking.

According to Gurman’s sources, Apple executives okayed the new product in 2022 but have gotten more serious about developing it over the last few months.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Inc.

Any new hardware play will come as Apple moves to embrace artificial intelligence, including through a recent OpenAI partnership and the rollout of “Apple Intelligence”–which aims to integrate generative AI software into iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. The company is expected to announce new iPhones and smartwatches next month. 

It would also come in the wake of Apple abandoning its long-rumored self-driving electric car effort, “Project Titan,” which the Cupertino, Cal.-based tech giant shuttered in February after spending many years, and billions of dollars, on the effort.

Bloomberg reports that the new smart screen product is being led by vice president of technology Kevin Lynch, who oversaw the abandoned car project.