- Apple is preparing a dramatic new push into the smart home market with fresh devices and software, including a smart home hub built around the new Siri AI assistant.
- The new smart home hub is expected to feature a 7-inch square display and will run software similar to watchOS and iOS.
- Features of the smart home hub will reportedly include FaceTime, home security monitoring, and an intercom tool for users with multiple Apple smart home devices.
- New models of the Apple TV and HomePod mini are nearly ready to launch, with plans for release this fall.
- The new Apple TV set-top box and HomePod mini will feature better processors to handle Siri AI and are expected to be priced at $199 and $129, respectively.
- Apple was initially set to reveal the smart home display in Spring 2025, but the launch was delayed to align with the release of iOS 27 and Siri AI.
- Rumors about new Apple TV and HomePod mini models have circulated for years, but the devices were postponed until Siri AI launches.
Apple Inc. is gearing up for a significant entry into the smart home market with a new hub device featuring an upgraded Siri AI. This hub, expected to launch between October and early next year, will include a 7-inch square display and a new operating system based on tvOS.34789
According to sources, the hub will offer features such as video chat, home security monitoring, and an intercom tool for users with multiple Apple devices. One standout feature is facial recognition, allowing the device to customize its interface based on who is using it.
In addition to the smart home hub, Apple is also preparing to release updated versions of the Apple TV set-top box and HomePod Mini. Both devices will feature improved processors to support the new Siri AI, with the Apple TV priced at $199 and the HomePod Mini at $129. These updates come after a long wait since the last models were introduced in 2020 and 2022, respectively.126
The new devices were initially slated for a Spring 2025 reveal, but delays in the Siri AI upgrade have pushed the timeline forward. With the upcoming launch, Apple aims to compete more effectively with rivals like Google and Amazon in the smart home sector.
“The new smart home hub is expected to feature a 7-inch display and facial recognition capabilities, allowing it to customize the interface for different users. Additionally, the new Apple TV and HomePod Mini are set to launch this fall, priced at $199 and $129, respectively.”
Gizmodo
MacRumors
