According to a report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to release an all-new smart home hub between October and early next year. The device combines a HomePod-like speaker with a 7-inch display, marking Apple's most ambitious entry into the smart home market. It will be available in tabletop and wall-mounted versions, with Apple reportedly expecting many customers to purchase multiple units for different rooms.
7-Inch Display with Facial Recognition for a Personalized Experience
The hub runs on an entirely new operating system based on tvOS, blending elements of watchOS and iOS. The interface features a grid of icons, widgets, apps, and customizable clock faces. With built-in facial recognition, the device can identify who is looking at the display and show personalized information such as reminders, calendar events, and photos. As a user approaches or moves away, the size of interface elements adjusts dynamically.
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Siri AI as the Core Engine of the Home Hub
Siri AI will be a central feature, handling voice commands for music playback, FaceTime calls, HomeKit accessory control, and more. The hub also functions as an intercom system for households with multiple Apple devices. Additional features include home security monitoring, photo galleries, and calendar management. Apple is also working on an advanced in-home security camera to compete with Amazon's Ring products, though it may be sold separately.
Expected Pricing and Availability for the New Apple Home Hub
Official pricing has not been announced, but given the specs and competition from devices like Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub, analysts estimate a cost between $200 and $300. The launch window is set for October 2026 through early 2027. Some experts view this product as Apple's first step toward a unified home ecosystem, aligning with the concept of "Apple Home." For those interested in reducing artificial light exposure for better sleep, a smart hub might seem contradictory, but as shown in a related experiment, syncing with natural rhythms remains a priority for many users.
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To provide context, the legal case involving eBay demonstrates that even large companies can make serious mistakes, but Apple's reputation is built on innovation and reliability. The new hub represents a significant bet for the Cupertino giant as it seeks to integrate more devices into daily life. According to Gurman, mass production could begin in the coming weeks, with an official unveiling expected in September or October. Further details may emerge at WWDC 2027, but for now the market eagerly awaits this new smart home contender.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/07/28/apple-home-hub-as-soon-as-october
