Danny Weber
Apple is reportedly preparing a 7-inch smart home display with FaceTime, camera feeds, smart-home controls and a new Siri powered by Apple Intelligence.
Apple is preparing to enter the smart home display market with a device referred to in reports as Home Hub or HomePad. According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the product could be unveiled as early as October 2026, although the announcement may still slip to early 2027. Apple has not officially confirmed the plans.
The product is described as a compact smart screen paired with a HomePod-like speaker system. It is said to feature a square touchscreen measuring about 7 inches and a new operating system based on tvOS. The interface may combine an app grid, widgets and customizable clock faces.
Apple could offer two versions of the home hub: a desktop model with a stand and a wall-mounted option. A built-in camera would support FaceTime video calls, while facial recognition could tailor the interface to the person standing in front of the screen. Text and icon sizes may also change depending on how close the user is to the device.
One of the device’s main features is expected to be an upgraded Siri with Apple Intelligence. The hub could also control compatible appliances, show feeds from security cameras and work as an intercom between rooms. Current HomePod models already support smart-home controls, but Apple does not yet sell a model with a full display.
Apple is also reportedly developing its own home security camera, updated Apple TV hardware and a new HomePod mini. A more expensive desktop robot with a motorized display stand is believed to be a separate project. Its screen could turn to follow the user, but no launch window has been reported.
© A. Krivonosov