Apple Smart Home Display Expected as Early as October 2026
Apple is rumoured to be introducing its smart home display device as early as October 2026. According to a report from Macrumors on Monday (21/9) local time, the news was disclosed by Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman. Previously, in August, Gurman mentioned that the long-rumoured device was scheduled to launch before the end of 2026.
The display will function as a control centre for various smart devices in the home, while also serving as a medium for communicating with household members, accessing entertainment content, and utilising various Apple services.
Apple is reportedly conducting extensive testing of the smart display in the homes of several employees. The display features a square shape and is relatively compact in size.
Two models are expected to be offered: a version equipped with a stand for placement on desks or other flat surfaces, and a model that can be wall-mounted. The screen size is estimated to be smaller than that of the Amazon Echo Show.
Apple has also developed a dedicated operating system for the device, featuring AI-based Siri as one of its primary features. Its interface will combine elements from iOS, tvOS, and watchOS.
The interface will feature a home screen, widgets, and various clock display options, allowing information to remain visible when the screen is not actively in use.
With the support of AI-powered Siri, users can search for information stored across various Apple devices and accounts, rediscover shared songs or podcasts, find photos, and even request Siri to perform specific tasks within applications.
The smart display is also likely to include a camera for video calls and for recognising family members. Upon detecting a user’s face, the device will display information such as schedules, notes, personalised entertainment content, news, and other relevant data.
Furthermore, the device is expected to function as a controller for smart home devices, an intercom for communication, a music and video player, and provide access to applications such as Calendar, Notes, and Reminders.
Users will still require an iPhone for the initial setup process and for several other features connected to the smartphone.
This smart home display device is said to be one of the first major products introduced under the leadership of Apple CEO John Ternus.
According to Gurman, Apple intends to maintain the iPhone as the central hub for user activity on mobile devices, while the smart display, alongside Apple TV and HomePod, will be positioned as the centre of the Apple ecosystem within the home.