Julie Clover
Apple is rumored to be working on some sort of iPad-like smart display that would serve as a home hub for controlling HomeKit and Matter devices. We've been hearing rumors about this device for the past few years, and now new information about its potential design has emerged.
Referred to internally as the “HomeAccessory,” the upcoming smart home device features a “square display,” according to 9to5Mac. The square display would differentiate the product from the iPad, which has a more rectangular display. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman previously described the smart home hub as “iPad-like” with features borrowed from the iPad, HomePod, and Apple TV, but he also described a separate HomePod with a screen that appears simpler.
9to5Mac says it's unclear whether the square design will make it into the final product, which also appears to have a built-in camera for FaceTime. The device includes a camera that can recognize hand gestures from afar, and it can differentiate one person from another for personalized requests. While it can run apps and play media like the Apple TV, it will also serve as an AirPlay receiver like the HomePod.
MacRumors spotted signs of HomeAccessory in Apple's backend code earlier this year. It's a different product from Apple's other home devices, the Apple TV and HomePod. It appears to run a version of tvOS very similar to the HomePod, and the test version we saw featured an A18 chip, so chances are it's not too far away from launch.
With an A18 chip or later, Apple's smart home product will be able to run Apple Intelligence features and will support a smarter Siri, which Apple plans to introduce in 2025. Previous rumors said it wouldn't debut until 2025, but 9to5Mac says it could arrive next spring.
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