Lenovo's AI Workmate concept puts a desk robot with a projector in your office

A robotic desk assistant with glowing eyes and an animated face that sips imaginary coffee is Lenovo's latest vision for the AI-powered workplace. The AI Workmate Concept can project documents onto walls, scan postcards with downward-facing cameras, and chat with workers using locally-processed artificial intelligence rather than relying on cloud servers.

Unveiled at Mobile World Congress, this prototype represents Lenovo's exploration of what they call "spatial and physical AI experiences" - giving artificial intelligence a physical presence in professional environments. The device houses an Intel Core Ultra processor behind its expressive 3.4-inch screen, which displays emotions rather than data.

Lenovo also introduced a quieter companion device called the AI Work Companion Concept, which resembles a small clock and manages schedules through its "Thought Bubble" system. This assistant synthesizes daily plans, suggests rest periods, and compiles weekly progress reports without the theatrical personality of its robotic counterpart.

Both prototypes remain experimental as Lenovo tests whether workers want AI that extends beyond screens into their physical workspace through projections, gestures, and conversation.