Tech giant Apple rumored to be developing a Smart Home Hub integrating artificial intelligence: Here's the latest info
Apple is set to enter the smart home market with its new smart home hub, powered by the upcoming homeOS. Initially expected in early 2025, the launch has been delayed to 2026 to ensure advanced Siri and AI functionalities are fully realised[1][3][5].
The smart home hub will function as a wall-mounted smart display with touch and voice controls, featuring a 6- to 7-inch square smart display that can be mounted on a wall or placed on a speaker base[1][2][5]. Blending elements of watchOS and iPhone's StandBy UI, the device will offer a widget-based, customisable home screen featuring weather, photos, calendar, and home controls[1][2][5].
Pre-installed Apple apps such as Safari, Apple Music, Apple News, Notes, Calendar, Photos, and Home will be available, although the hub will not have a dedicated App Store[1]. An A18 chip will power advanced AI capabilities branded as Apple Intelligence, enabling smarter Siri interactions to perform tasks across apps[1][2][5].
Integration with HomeKit will be a key focus, providing control over smart home products, security alerts, and video footage from connected cameras[1][3]. The smart home hub will also feature a built-in camera for FaceTime and potentially intercom features, allowing multiple hubs to serve as room-to-room communication devices[1][2][3]. Support for AirPlay will enable users to play music through built-in speakers and act as an AirPlay receiver[1].
Pricing is rumoured to start at around $199, positioning it as a premium alternative aimed at competing with similar devices like the Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub but with deeper Apple ecosystem integration[2]. The smart home hub could be the debut device for homeOS, Apple's rumoured new smart home operating system[1][3][5].
Apple is reportedly also working on a more advanced version of the smart home hub, codenamed J595. This high-end version is said to have a robotic arm and is expected to make its global debut in the next two years[1][4].
Sources:
- The Verge
- Bloomberg
- 9to5Mac
- MacRumors
- TechCrunch
This article was edited by Ashish Singh, Chief Copy Editor at our platform, who has been working in the field since 2020. Ashish is fluent in Geek language and has previously worked with Times Internet and Jagran English.
- The upcoming homeOS-powered smart home hub from Apple will not only serve as a voice-controlled assistant but also integrate with various smart home gadgets and devices, offering a seamless smart home experience.
- With the integration of advanced AI capabilities, such as Apple Intelligence, the new smart home hub is expected to perform tasks across various apps more efficiently, making it a sophisticated gadget amidst the current smart home technology landscape.
