Apple is gearing up to re-enter the smart home arena, with reports suggesting that the company is planning to unveil a new smart display as early as 2025. This anticipated device is expected to run on a new operating system called “homeOS,” which will draw upon the foundation of the Apple TV’s tvOS, much like the software currently used in the HomePod.
According to a Bloomberg report, the smart display is set to support various essential Apple applications, including Calendar, Notes, and the Home app. A prototype of the device is rumored to feature magnets for easy wall mounting and may incorporate Apple Intelligence, a functionality that is currently absent from the existing HomePods. This could significantly enhance the device’s interactivity and usability.
Speculation surrounding Apple’s smart home display has been prevalent for some time, with earlier concepts ranging from a HomePod with an integrated screen to more futuristic ideas, such as a robotic arm that could rotate during video calls. However, the most recent rumors indicate that Apple is opting for a simpler design. The device may take on a square shape, referred to as a “HomeAccessory,” and feature gesture controls, allowing users to operate it remotely without direct interaction.
Additionally, code references to homeOS have been discovered, further solidifying the possibility of this new operating system being integral to the upcoming device.
This new smart display could offer a more streamlined and user-friendly experience compared to using an iPad as a dedicated smart home controller, which many users have found cumbersome. Although an official launch date has not yet been confirmed, the prospect of Apple’s renewed focus on smart home technology is generating excitement and anticipation among consumers and industry observers alike.
