According to a new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is finally preparing to launch three new Smart Home devices to help push the company further into its Siri AI future. Here’s what we know so far.
In his report, Gurman says Apple is launching three devices before a wave of other Home devices hits the market. To bring everything together, Apple is preparing to launch a Home Hub device that runs the Siri AI assistant. Next, Apple will update the Apple TV set-top box and refresh the HomePod mini.
Citing people familiar with the plans, Gurman says, “All three devices are nearly ready to launch, with the company set to release the new Apple TV and HomePod mini this fall and the home hub between October and early next year.”
A refresh to both the HomePod mini and the Apple TV is a welcome one. The HomePod mini is powered by the Apple Watch Series 5’s S5 chip, while the Apple TV is run by an A15 Bionic chip. The new updated models should bring beefier internals to support Apple Intelligence.
Don’t expect any redesigns according to Gurman: “The new Apple TV and HomePod mini — code-named J265 and B525 — look like their current versions but include faster processors to support Siri AI.”
The most prominent facet of the report is the Apple smart hub. “It runs an entirely new operating system based on the Apple TV’s tvOS. The interface looks like a blend of that software with watchOS and iOS — complete with a grid of icons, widgets, and apps,” says Gurman. The device is said to feature a 7-inch square display and will feature FaceTime calling, Apple Home control, home security monitoring, and intercom support.
Gurman then adds that the “hallmark feature” of the home hub will be facial recognition. “Facial recognition enables the hub to identify who’s looking at the display, determine their distance, and personalize the interface in real time. It can adjust the size and type of information for easier viewing while displaying that user’s calendar, notes, and other personalized content based on who’s in front of the device.”
Gurman says two versions are coming: The first, internally known as J490, looks like a HomePod mini cut in half with a screen on top. The second, J491, uses a new magnetic attachment system to be securely mounted to the wall.
A home security camera and related system are in development. Expect these new devices to launch sometime later this year or early next year. Are you excited for Apple to finally enter the Home device area? Let us know in the comments.
