Apple reorganizes its AI division to accelerate its commitment to robots

Apple has decided to move its secretive robotics team from its AI division to its hardware division, according to new reports. The strategic shift, led by John Ternus, aims to accelerate the development of new smart products, such as desktop and mobile robots. This decision reflects Apple's growing interest in integrating AI and hardware into new product categories. The move comes at a critical time, as the company tries to regain ground against competitors like Google and OpenAI.

Apple moves its secret robotics team

Apple has decided to restructure its robotics division, moving it from John Giannandrea's AI organization to the hardware group led by John Ternus. The organizational change will take effect at the end of this month , strengthening Ternus's role not only as the head of hardware such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs, but also of innovative projects based on artificial intelligence.

Currently, the robotics team is led by Kevin Lynch , the same executive who previously worked on the development of the Apple Watch and Apple's canceled self-driving car project. This transition adds to a series of recent internal moves that reduce Giannandrea's scope, signaling a broader reconfiguration of Apple's innovation strategy.

The move also reflects a renewed interest in integrating AI into physical devices , prioritizing the creation of smart hardware capable of interacting dynamically with users.

Desktop robots, telepresence robots, and more

Apple's secretive robotics team is working on developing several AI-powered hardware products that could launch new categories in its catalog. One of the most noteworthy projects is a desktop robot with a mechanical arm capable of moving an iPad-like screen , enabling a more natural and immersive interaction experience.

In addition, Apple is exploring the creation of a mobile home robot , a device likened to Amazon's Astro: essentially an "iPad on wheels" with video calling and telepresence capabilities. Beyond these immediate projects, the team is also investigating humanoid and non-humanoid robot concepts , expanding the possibilities for future applications in smart home environments.

The team's move to hardware suggests that Apple is looking to move from the research phase to real commercial development , thus accelerating the realization of its ambitions in the field of domestic robotics.

The fall of Giannandrea and the rise of Ternus

The reorganization of the robotics division is not an isolated event. In March 2025, Apple already moved Siri's development away from Giannandrea's oversight , reflecting internal dissatisfaction with the pace of progress on its artificial intelligence projects.

Now, the concentration of power in John Ternus's hands is unusual in Apple's traditional structure , as it combines hardware engineering with intelligent systems teams. This merging of responsibilities points to a strategy of deeper integration between physical devices and AI capabilities.

Recent delays in Siri improvements and the lukewarm reception of Apple Intelligence have increased internal pressure to accelerate innovation and introduce disruptive products. This strategic shift suggests Apple is seeking a more results-oriented approach, moving away from lengthy research projects with no visible outcomes.

A bid to stay ahead in the AI ​​race

Apple's move to bring robotics to hardware comes at a critical time. The company has been criticized for lagging behind in the recent rise of artificial intelligence , while competitors like Google, OpenAI, and even Amazon have shown significant progress in integrating AI into everyday products.

The restructuring also comes after the abandonment of its ambitious autonomous vehicle project, reflecting a global reassessment of its strategic priorities . Now, the focus appears to be on accelerating tangible innovation and opening new revenue streams through products that combine intelligent hardware and software.

Apple's focus on home robots and telepresence assistants could position it competitively if it succeeds in developing useful, reliable, and appealing devices for consumers. As the AI ​​and home robotics market expands rapidly, the success of this move could define Apple's next decade.