Apple is expanding its manufacturing footprint in Vietnam as it prepares to launch a new wave of smart home devices, including a tabletop robot and a Siri-powered home hub – in a move that reduces its reliance on China.
According to Bloomberg, the company is working with China’s BYD Company to assemble, test and package the devices in Vietnam, marking the first time the country will serve as the primary production base for an entirely new Apple product line.
The partnership will also see BYD expand iPad manufacturing in the region.
The first product off the line will be a 7-inch “Home Hub” display – effectively a smart command centre for connected appliances, music and communication, which is expected to debut in spring 2026.
The device will come in two versions: one with a speaker base, and the other designed for wall mounting.
They will feature FaceTime, adaptive software that recognises users, and an upgraded version of Siri capable of responding to web-based questions and controlling apps more precisely.
Apple is targeting a price around US$350 (A$550), placing it above the full-sized HomePod and competing directly with Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub.
An indoor security camera is also in the pipeline for late 2026, followed by a more ambitious tabletop robot in 2027.
The robot, featuring a motorised arm and a 9-inch display, will use advanced AI to follow users and interact with them dynamically. The technology stems from Apple’s now-shelved self-driving car project.
However, its complexity means it could come with a hefty price tag.
Apple’s broader manufacturing strategy continues to pivot away from China amid ongoing trade tensions and the risk of tariffs.
Even with a 20% US tariff on Vietnamese imports, Apple is relying on supply chain diversification to strengthen its long-term stability.
The company already produces AirPods, Apple Watches, Macs and some iPads in Vietnam, alongside expanding operations in India, Malaysia and Thailand.
