All-New Apple Home Hub Reportedly Launching as Soon as October

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple intends to introduce a brand-new smart home hub sometime from October through the first months of next year.

The device combines speaker and display capabilities. This forthcoming product pairs a speaker similar to the HomePod with an approximately 7-inch screen and relies on a completely fresh operating system derived from the Apple TV's tvOS.

Its user interface reportedly mixes elements of tvOS, watchOS, and iOS, presenting a layout filled with icons, widgets, apps, and options for personalized clock faces.

Siri AI serves as a core feature with adaptive interface behavior. Siri AI is slated to sit at the center of the experience. Built-in facial recognition would let the hub recognize individuals viewing the screen and deliver tailored content, the report said. Interface items are expected to resize dynamically depending on whether someone is nearing the unit or stepping back.

Multiple form factors and multi-unit purchases are planned. The hub is meant for placement in various rooms such as kitchens, living rooms, or bedrooms. It will come in both tabletop and wall-mounted variants, with Apple reportedly anticipating that many buyers will purchase several units.

Extensive smart home and communication features are included. Additional capabilities cited encompass FaceTime video calls, home security monitoring, HomeKit accessory management, photo galleries, a calendar, music playback, plus an intercom function for homes equipped with several Apple devices.

The company is also developing an advanced in-home security camera positioned to rival Amazon's Ring lineup, according to the report.