Apple is poised to make a significant impact on the smart home market with the release of its new smart home hub, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. In his latest “Power On!” newsletter, Gurman describes the device as “the most significant release of the year,” signaling a major push by Apple to expand its presence in the connected home space.
The new hub is expected to combine the functionality of a HomePod with the versatility of an iPad. Gurman envisions a device with a seven-inch screen, allowing users to control smart home appliances, engage in FaceTime calls, and perform various other tasks. This would represent a significant upgrade from the current HomeKit setup, which relies on HomePod, Apple TV, or other devices as home hubs.
Interestingly, Gurman suggests that this initial release will be followed by a more advanced version in the coming years. This higher-end model could feature a robotic arm, enabling it to track users around the room and maintain optimal screen positioning during video calls.
While previous leaks hinted at a six-inch screen, Gurman’s report corroborates other rumors suggesting a fusion of iPad and AI capabilities with a HomePod. Details about the operating system and specific features remain unclear, but the overarching goal appears to be to establish this new device as the central control point for an Apple-centric smart home ecosystem.
Gurman believes this new hub is a crucial step towards Apple achieving its smart home ambitions. By integrating a user-friendly interface with enhanced Siri functionality, Apple aims to compete more directly with established players like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
This new smart home hub could be a game changer, potentially propelling Apple to the forefront of the smart home market.
