After years of rumors and delays, Apple's long-awaited smart home device, possibly called HomePad, might finally see the light of day in 2026. According to the latest leaks, the Cupertino-based company is ready to unveil a product that combines the functionality of a smart speaker with an interactive display, directly competing with solutions like the Amazon Echo Show. Speculation about this device began as early as 2025, when Bloomberg reported the existence of a wall-mounted project, but issues with the Siri voice assistant slowed down development.
September 'Surprise and Shine' event could unveil the new device
The key appointment is Apple's 'Surprise and Shine' event, where the new iPhone 18 lineup, including a foldable version, is expected, along with new AirPods and Apple Watch. The HomePad might also be among the announced products. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the wall-mounted device project was ready two years ago, but the arrival of Apple Intelligence and an improved Siri has opened new possibilities. This time, conditions might finally be favorable for launch.
Sponsored Protocol
Estimated price between $350 and $499 for the new home hub
Regarding pricing, early estimates talk about a cost of around $350, a figure that seems optimistic given that the current HomePod 2 sells for $349. The new device, having a screen, could be positioned in a higher bracket. A more realistic estimate suggests a price around $499, in line with tablets and similar devices. The official name is still shrouded in mystery, with some rumors indicating 'HomePad', others 'HomeHub', and even the simpler 'HomePod Display'. The name choice will be crucial for the product's market positioning.
Hybrid design between speaker and display with wall-mount option
On the design front, leaks suggest the HomePad will feature a screen attached to a speaker base. Its appearance might resemble the Amazon Echo Show 10, which had a rotatable screen that could follow the user around the room. However, Apple might opt for a simpler solution, leveraging the digital face tracking technology already present in Center Stage on iPads and MacBooks. Some patents filed two years ago hinted at a tabletop robot with mechanical movement, but the project might have been shelved. Additionally, the possibility of two variants, one tabletop and one wall-mounted, similar to Amazon's Echo Show 15 and 21, cannot be ruled out. According to MacRumors, the tabletop model could have a square 7-inch display and a front camera.
Sponsored Protocol
Interface similar to Apple Watch with customizable watch faces
The HomePad's interface might be more akin to an Apple Watch than an iPad. A leak reported by Engadget revealed code references in OS Tahoe to customizable 'watch faces'. Users could choose from different screens in a sort of 'Face Gallery', and widgets could change dynamically during the day based on environmental conditions and home activities. The device would also be able to recognize who is looking at it, tailoring content to individual preferences.
Sponsored Protocol
Challenge for Apple to differentiate in a declining market
The question arises, after years of waiting, might it be too late for such a product? Amazon already has a wide range of smart displays, but has recently abandoned the form factor with a rotatable display. Google has also given up on this type of device, after the Pixel Tablet, initially conceived as a smart home hub, was first stripped of its dock and then completely discontinued. In this scenario, Apple will need to prove it can offer something truly innovative to convince users to introduce a new device into their homes. Integration with the Apple ecosystem and Siri's potential could be the main strengths. The evolution of AI and the adoption of Apple Intelligence will be key factors for the success of the HomePad, which might finally find its place in the smart home landscape.
Sponsored Protocol
Related articles such as industrial AI adoption outpacing workforce ability and the Tom's Guide evaluation of Peacock offer insights into how technology is evolving in different sectors. Furthermore, the early moves of John Ternus as Apple CEO might influence the company's future strategies in the smart home field.
