Apple plans to launch new smart-home hub on Oct. 13
AAPL•Apple plans to launch a smart-home hub on October 13, reportedly, alongside an updated HomePod mini and a new Apple TV set-top box, Bloomberg News reported. The hub is described as a roughly 6-inch square display available for wall mounting or countertop placement.
1. Planned product launch
Apple is planning to introduce a smart-home hub, code-named J490, on October 13, reportedly, alongside the first HomePod mini update since its 2020 debut and its first new TV set-top box since 2022. The hub is expected to have a roughly 6-inch square display, with versions for wall mounting or countertop placement.
2. Features and hardware
The hub is designed to recognize household members and provide personalized content and responses based on their data and accounts. The updated HomePod mini and Apple TV are expected to retain their current designs and include faster processors to support more powerful Siri AI models.
3. Apple’s smart-home lineup
Apple currently sells the HomePod and HomePod mini, while Apple TV 4K is part of its home entertainment lineup. The company has been seeking to expand its smart-home presence while remaining anchored by its iPhone business.
