News in Short

• Apple could launch a new HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K later this fall.
• A new 7-inch smart home hub with an A18 chip could arrive between October and early 2027.
• Apple is reportedly developing a smart home camera and doorbell for its ecosystem.
• A larger 9-inch smart display with a robotic arm is also reportedly in development.

Apple appears to be preparing a major expansion of its smart home portfolio, with a refreshed HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K reportedly arriving first. The company is also working on a new smart home hub, security devices and a robotic home display.

HomePod mini and Apple TV Could Arrive First

Apple’s existing HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K have been on the market for several years. However, the company could finally refresh both products later this year.

The next HomePod mini could move from the S5 chip to the S9 chip or a newer option. It may also get a new wireless chip, additional colours and audio improvements.

More importantly, the updated speaker could support Apple’s AI-powered Siri. That would give the HomePod mini a more capable role within Apple’s smart home ecosystem.

Meanwhile, the next Apple TV 4K could reportedly move from the A15 Bionic to the A17 Pro chip. The upgrade could allow some Apple Intelligence capabilities to run locally. Apple may also introduce a redesigned remote.

The current HomePod mini starts at $129, while the Apple TV 4K starts at $199.

Apple’s First Smart Home Hub Could Be Next

The company is also reportedly developing its first dedicated smart home hub. The device could come in two versions. One could feature a wall-mounted display, while another could combine the screen with a speaker base.

The device, often referred to as “HomePad”, could feature a 7-inch square display and an A18 chip. It is expected to run a new homeOS platform. The system could let users control smart home devices, make FaceTime calls and interact with Siri AI.

Apple is also reportedly working on a new full-size HomePod. However, there is currently no confirmed launch timeline for the larger speaker.

Security Cameras and a Robotic Display

The company’s smart home ambitions could eventually extend beyond speakers and displays. The company is reportedly developing its first smart home security camera and doorbell. These products could bring Apple’s ecosystem into a market currently dominated by companies such as Ring and Nest.

Further down the road, Apple could also launch a more advanced smart display with a 9-inch screen and a robotic arm. The tabletop device could move its display to better face users.

If these products arrive as reported, Apple could be moving from simply supporting smart homes to building a much broader hardware ecosystem around them.