Apple plans to launch an all-new smart home hub between October and early next year, according to BloombergIt’s Mark Gurman.
Siri AI is expected to be an essential feature of the hub, designed to be placed in rooms in your home, such as a kitchen, living room or bedroom. The report states that the device will be available in tabletop and wall-mounted versions, with Apple apparently believing that many customers will purchase more than one.
The hub will essentially combine a HomePod-like speaker with a 7-inch screen. The report states that the device runs an entirely new operating system based on the Apple TV’s tvOS platform, with the interface described as tvOS mixed with watchOS and iOS. There will be a grid of icons, widgets and apps, as well as customizable clock faces.
With built-in facial recognition, the hub can identify who is viewing the screen and display personalized information, the report said. As a user approaches or moves away from the hub, the size of interface elements changes.
Other features mentioned include FaceTime video calling, home security monitoring, HomeKit accessory management, photo galleries, calendar, music playback, and an intercom system for homes with multiple Apple home devices.
Apple also continues to work on an advanced home security camera that would compete with Amazon’s Ring products, according to the report.
