The experimental lamp robot I wrote about recently uses humanlike “body language” but is formed like a lamp. It’s “anthropomorphic” but not “humanoid.” Apple is investing in a scientific exploration of “robots” that express themselves in response to a human user without that robot looking anything in any respect like an individual and even without robot speech.
Apple’s first “robot” will likely be an Apple HomePod that moves. Internally code-named J595, the device has been described by leakers as having an iPad-like display at the tip of a robotic arm that tilts, rotates, and moves. It locates and “faces” the user during their interactions or when the user is making a FaceTime call using it. Based on Apple Intelligence, the gadget may be used for controlling smart home devices and security systems.
One reasonable expectation is that Apple’s research for making home appliances “anthropomorphic” but not “humanoid” will likely be applied to the device. That research, which I detailed last week, known as ELEGNT. Nevertheless it’s not only a science project. ELEGNT is a framework for designing movement in non-anthropomorphic robots. It combines functional attributes (like task efficiency) with expressive qualities (akin to conveying intention, attention, and emotions) to create a greater user experience.
