Apple fans hoping for a new smart home product this year may need to adjust their expectations. According to Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, Apple’s rumored “Home Hub” likely won’t be released until 2026.
While Apple’s HomeKit technology has been leading in some aspects, the company has lagged behind in offering a dedicated smart home hub. Google and Amazon have made strides with their Nest Hub and Echo Show devices, while Apple has relied on iPhones, iPads, and Siri.
In recent years, there have been hints of Apple working on filling this gap. Reports have surfaced about various smart home devices, from a HomePod with a screen to a tabletop device with a robotic arm. Last year, Gurman mentioned a wall-mounted home hub powered by a new “homeOS” platform.
Sources describe the new device as having a square six- or seven-inch screen, similar in size to two iPhones side by side. It includes a FaceTime camera, rechargeable battery, and internal speakers. The device can be wall-mounted or placed on a tabletop with a docking base that also has speakers.
Anticipation was high for the device’s release earlier this year, with employees reportedly testing units in their homes. However, delays in Siri’s development have pushed back the launch timeline. Apple’s new Siri, expected to be more advanced and personalized, is now slated for a 2026 release.
Gurman’s insights indicate that Apple is holding off on the Home Hub until Siri is fully optimized. The device, codenamed J490, heavily relies on Siri features planned for future iOS updates. The delay in Siri’s capabilities has impacted the device’s functionalities, leading to a projected 2026 launch.
While updates on Apple TV and HomePod mini are expected this fall, the fate of the display-equipped HomePod remains uncertain. Apple’s home products often remain under the radar, with incremental updates overshadowed by major releases.
[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Provided details may not be factual. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]
