Apple is set to revolutionize the smart home market with a new HomePod featuring a display, slated for release next year. This innovative device will run on a new operating system called homeOS and incorporate Apple Intelligence, marking a significant leap in the company's smart home offerings.
According to industry insiders, Apple is developing two versions of this smart display. The lower-end model, codenamed J490, is expected to launch in 2025. It will feature a squarish display, a camera for FaceTime calls, and the ability to recognize hand gestures. Powered by an A18 chip, this device will be capable of running Apple Intelligence on-device, a feature currently absent from Apple's existing smart home products.
The homeOS operating system, based on the Apple TV's tvOS, will drive these new devices. It's designed to run popular Apple apps like Calendar, Notes, and Home, with an interface optimized for controlling home applications and quickly accessing information. The home screen is expected to focus more on widgets rather than traditional app icons.
Apple is also reportedly working on a higher-end smart display, codenamed J595, which will include a robotic arm and a larger screen. This premium device is anticipated to cost over $1000, positioning it as a luxury smart home product.
These new HomePod models represent Apple's renewed focus on the smart home sector. By integrating Apple Intelligence and creating a dedicated operating system, the company aims to offer a more seamless and powerful smart home experience for its users.
While exact release dates and pricing for the lower-end model remain unconfirmed, the tech community eagerly awaits more details about these groundbreaking devices. As Apple continues to innovate in the smart home space, these new HomePods with displays could potentially reshape how we interact with our homes in the near future.