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Apple is reportedly preparing to expand its connected-home hardware lineup with a new smart home hub on October 13, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The reported device, internally code-named J490 and informally referred to as HomePad, would give Apple a dedicated display for controlling smart-home devices and accessing Siri-powered features.
The reported launch is expected to include a new HomePod mini and an updated Apple TV as well. Apple has not officially announced the October 13 event, the rumored HomePad name or the specifications of the new hub.
A New Device for Apple’s Smart Home Strategy
The reported hub would represent a new type of hardware for Apple’s Apple smart home ecosystem.
According to Gurman’s reporting, the device could feature a roughly six-inch square display mounted on a rounded metal base. Another version is reportedly designed for wall mounting. Both models are expected to require a wired power connection rather than using an internal battery.
The design is reportedly inspired partly by Apple’s earlier hardware, including the iMac G4. However, these design details remain based on reports rather than official Apple specifications.
Siri Is Expected to Be Central to the Hub
Siri is reportedly at the centre of Apple’s new home-device strategy.
The hub is expected to combine a touchscreen interface with Apple’s newer AI capabilities, allowing users to control connected accessories and interact with information through the device.
Reports also suggest that the hub could recognise different household members through voice and facial recognition. Personalised content such as calendars, messages, photos and other information could then appear depending on the user.
A guest mode is also reportedly being developed to prevent personal information from being displayed to visitors. These features have not been confirmed by Apple.
How the Interface Could Work
The reported interface is expected to borrow elements from several existing Apple platforms.
Gurman’s reporting suggests that the software could combine aspects of the Apple Watch, Apple TV, iPad and iPhone. Possible features include widgets, clock displays, photo slideshows and an iPad-style application interface.
The device is also reportedly being designed for tasks such as smart-home control, music playback, video calls and intercom-style communication.
The final interface and capabilities could change before any official release.
Apple Already Has Home Hubs
The new product would not be Apple’s first smart-home hub.
Apple currently allows a HomePod, HomePod mini or Apple TV to function as a home hub for the Home app. These devices can help users control compatible accessories remotely and automate smart-home functions.
The reported new device would instead add a dedicated display-based experience to that ecosystem.
This could give users a permanent screen for viewing information and controlling accessories without having to reach for an iPhone or iPad.
HomePod Mini and Apple TV Updates
The reported October lineup is also expected to include an updated HomePod mini and a new Apple TV.
According to current reporting, both products are expected to retain designs similar to their existing versions while receiving faster processors that could support Apple’s newer Siri AI capabilities.
The HomePod mini has not received a major hardware update since its 2020 introduction, while the current Apple TV 4K generation dates from 2022.
The reported lineup would therefore give Apple several updated home products working around its newer AI strategy.
The Full-Size HomePod Is Reportedly Not Coming Yet
One important distinction is that the larger HomePod is not expected to be part of the reported October 13 lineup.
Current reporting says Apple still plans to update the full-size HomePod at some point, but it is not among the three products expected in October.
This means the reported launch would focus on the new hub, HomePod mini and Apple TV rather than a complete refresh of Apple’s entire home-product range.
Why the Apple Smart Home Push Matters
The Apple smart home strategy could give the company a more visible presence in a category where Amazon and Google have already established smart displays and connected-home products.
Apple already has a broad ecosystem of iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, HomePods, Apple TVs and HomeKit-compatible accessories. A dedicated display could provide another way for households to interact with those products and services.
The potential advantage would be integration across Apple’s existing ecosystem rather than simply introducing another standalone smart display.
Price and Launch Details Remain Unconfirmed
Several important details about the reported hub remain unknown.
Previous reports have suggested a possible price of around $350, but Apple has not confirmed that figure. The October 13 date also comes from Bloomberg’s reporting rather than an official Apple announcement.
The final product name, pricing, availability, specifications and feature set could therefore differ from current reports.
FAQs
What is Apple’s reported new smart home hub?
Apple is reportedly developing a display-equipped smart-home device designed to provide access to Siri, smart-home controls, widgets and other Apple services.
Is HomePad the official name?
No. HomePad is an informal name used in reporting. Apple’s official product name has not been announced.
When is the Apple smart home hub expected to launch?
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that Apple is planning to introduce the device on October 13, 2026. Apple has not officially confirmed the date.
Will Apple update the HomePod mini?
Reports indicate that a new HomePod mini is expected alongside the smart-home hub and Apple TV.
Is Apple replacing its existing Home hubs?
No. Apple currently supports HomePod, HomePod mini and Apple TV as home hubs. The reported new device would add another dedicated interface rather than replace those existing functions.
How much will the new hub cost?
A price around $350 has been reported previously, but Apple has not confirmed pricing.
Conclusion
The reported Apple smart home hub could expand Apple’s connected-home strategy by adding a dedicated display for Siri, smart-home controls and personalised household information.
Current reports indicate that the device could arrive alongside a new HomePod mini and Apple TV on October 13. However, Apple has not officially confirmed the event, product name, pricing or specifications.
Apple already has a home-hub ecosystem built around HomePod, HomePod mini and Apple TV. The reported new device would add a more visible, screen-based interface to that system and could give Apple another way to connect its hardware and services within the home.