Apple's New Smart Home Display Rumored to Launch in 2025
- Apple’s working on a “HomePod with a screen,” and it’s not what you’d expect.
- Think iMac G4 vibes with Siri baked right in—yes, it’s happening.
- A new smart display and an all-new “homeOS”—ready to change up your living room?
Following the release of the HomePod 2 in early 2023, Apple appears to be gearing up for its next major smart home product. Rumors surrounding this new addition to the lineup have fueled anticipation and speculation about what Apple has in store. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of everything we know so far.
Photo via HardwareZone // A concept image of Apple's long-rumored Smart Home Display.
A Smart Display with Apple Intelligence
Internal Codename: "HomeAccessory"
According to insiders, Apple’s new product, reportedly codenamed J490, is a smart display device designed to support Apple Intelligence features, powered by the advanced A18 chipset. Unlike the current HomePod models, which rely on Apple Watch chipsets (S5 and S7), this new device is expected to incorporate the full Apple Intelligence suite, marking a significant upgrade in Apple’s approach to the smart home space.
HomeAccessory in its current state has a squarish display, rather than a rectangular format like an iPad.– 9to5Mac Sources
This suggests a departure from Apple’s traditional tablet designs, offering a square aspect ratio display that may appeal to those looking for a more focused, stationary smart home experience.
A Design Inspired by the iMac G4
Apple has long been known for its attention to design, and the upcoming Apple smart home display may borrow elements from the iconic iMac G4. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported that Apple is developing a device with a screen angled on a small base – a design reminiscent of the beloved "sunflower" Mac of 2002. Unlike the iMac G4, however, the smart display’s screen will likely be fixed rather than articulated, making it distinct from Apple’s earlier designs.
Expected Features Include:
- Built-in Camera: Supporting FaceTime and possibly other video-conferencing apps.
- Speaker Base: Integrated speakers for a seamless audio experience, which could also support Siri for voice commands and music playback.
- homeOS: An all-new operating system, reportedly derived from tvOS, tailored for Apple's smart home devices with displays.
Photo via Mashable // The iMac G4, an iconic Apple product with an unforgettable design.
Apple’s Long-Awaited “homeOS”
This upcoming display is likely to introduce homeOS, Apple’s new operating system for smart home devices. Earlier discoveries by 9to5Mac of a tvOS 18 beta feature named "PlasterBoard" suggest that homeOS will be built on tvOS architecture. This new OS is anticipated to support apps such as FaceTime, Calendar, and Notes, creating an ecosystem more aligned with Apple’s mobile and desktop platforms.
Photo via 9to5Mac // A leaked image of Apple's upcoming homeOS operating system.
Release Date and Pricing Speculations
Apple is expected to debut its new smart display in spring 2025. While specific pricing remains a mystery, Gurman notes that Apple aims to make this device “relatively cheap,” possibly to encourage users to buy multiple units for different rooms. Still, pricing details are unconfirmed, leaving open the possibility for a range anywhere from $199 to $399.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s anticipated entry into the smart display market could be a game-changer, combining the power of Apple’s A18 chipset with a design that honors its rich product history. With a rumored launch date in 2025, the countdown has begun for Apple’s most ambitious foray into the smart home category yet.
Will this be a hit with Apple fans? Only time will tell. But if Apple’s track record is any indication, we could be in for an innovative product that reshapes how we interact with smart home technology.
Join the Discussion
Are you excited about Apple’s latest venture? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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