Apple is forging ahead with the creation of a smart home hub featuring an iPad-like screen, as reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The anticipated release date for this device is set for 2026 or 2027, with an estimated retail price of approximately $1000.
According to insiders informed by Gurman, Apple has assembled a team of hundreds of individuals dedicated to the development of this device. Described as a tabletop device with an 'iPad-like' display, it will be mounted on a robotic arm capable of tilting and rotating the screen 360 degrees. Gurman notes that this smart home device will be a variation of products like Amazon's Echo Show 10, Google's Nest Hub, or Meta's former Portal devices. Apple envisions this device as a central command center for smart homes, a tool for video conferencing through platforms like FaceTime, and a home security solution.
Users are expected to interact primarily with the Siri assistant and upcoming features in Apple Intelligence. Sources suggest that the smart screen will be able to respond to commands like 'look at me,' prompting the screen to automatically turn towards the user with the help of the robotic arm. During video calls, it should be able to differentiate voices and direct its gaze towards the speaker, according to Gurman. Test models currently operate on a variant of iPadOS.
In 2022, Apple reportedly greenlit the project, with formal development efforts kicking off more recently. The company is now focused on advancing the device's development, aiming for a launch in 2026 or 2027, as shared by insiders with Gurman. While Apple targets a $1000 price point for the smart home device, plans could evolve throughout the development phase, per sources.
Overseeing the development of the smart display is Kevin Lynch, formerly known for his work on Apple's smartwatch and health projects, as well as the shelved Apple car. Managing the hardware side of the project is Matt Costella, responsible for Apple's HomePod speakers. Apple has recently advertised openings seeking engineers with robotics expertise.
English (US)