AI D​A​M​N/Apple Expands Vietnam Production for AI Home Devices

Apple Expands Vietnam Production for AI Home Devices

Apple Accelerates Vietnam Production for New AI Home Devices

Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman has revealed Apple's plans to expand manufacturing operations in Vietnam with three new smart home products: a central control display, an indoor security camera, and an advanced desktop robot. This strategic move underscores Apple's commitment to diversifying its production base beyond China.

Product Lineup and Timeline

The upcoming devices include:

  • Central Control Display: Featuring a 7-inch screen and upgraded Siri assistant (comparable to ChatGPT), this device will control smart home appliances. Originally slated for March 2025 launch, software delays have pushed release to spring 2026.
  • Indoor Security Camera: Codenamed J450, expected by late 2025.
  • Desktop Robot: Equipped with motorized movement and AI interaction capabilities, now targeting a 2027 release due to technical complexities.

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Manufacturing Partnership

Apple will collaborate with Chinese electronics manufacturer BYD for assembly, testing, and packaging. This follows Apple's existing Vietnamese production of iPads, AirPods, Apple Watches, Macs, and HomePods - with plans to increase iPad manufacturing locally.

Technical Specifications

The central control device comes in two models:

  1. J490: Speaker-based design resembling a HomePod mini with screen ($350 estimated price)
  2. J491: Wall-mountable version featuring FaceTime camera and multi-user recognition

Both models utilize cost-effective LCD panels from Tianma Micro-electronics. The autonomous desktop robot prototype features:

  • Rotatable robotic arm
  • 9-inch display
  • Environmental awareness sensors
  • Voice interaction capabilities

Strategic Implications

Analysts note this expansion demonstrates Apple's three-pronged strategy:

  1. Diversifying supply chains amid geopolitical tensions
  2. Accelerating smart home ecosystem development
  3. Integrating Siri with advanced AI and robotics technologies

The Vietnam production shift aligns with broader industry trends toward Southeast Asian manufacturing hubs.

Key Points:

  • Apple investing in Vietnamese production of next-gen smart home devices
  • Three new products: control hub (2026), security cam (2025), robot (2027)
  • Partnership with BYD strengthens Asian supply chain resilience
  • Technical innovations include motorized robotics and enhanced Siri AI