Apple is hosting a long-awaited home device event tomorrow, October 13. Dubbed "Welcome Home," the keynote kicks off at 9:00 AM EST in New York. While the September event was all about the iPhone and Apple Watch, this one is clearly focused on the living room.
Here is our breakdown of what we expect to see.
The Star of the Show: A New Smart Home Hub
The biggest rumor is a brand-new smart home hub (some are calling it the "HomePad"). Essentially, it is a HomePod with a screen.
- What it is: A device featuring a 6-inch square display. It is expected to come in two versions: one that mounts to the wall, and another that sits on a half-dome speaker base reminiscent of the classic iMac G4.
- What it does: It will act as central command for your HomeKit devices, complete with voice and facial recognition to show personalized widgets. It will also handle FaceTime calls, stream video, and fully integrate with the new Siri AI.
- Expected Price: Around $350.
Homepod Mini 2
The HomePod mini hasn't seen a major update since it launched in 2020.
- What it is: A refreshed version of Apple's smallest smart speaker.
- What it does: It is expected to feature a new N1 networking chip for better connectivity, along with a faster processor to handle Siri AI directly on the device. We might also see some fun new colors.
- Expected Price: $129.
Apple TV 4K Upgrade
The Apple TV 4K is also due for a refresh. This was last updated in 2022.
- What it is: A spec-bumped version of the current streaming box.
- What it does: Rumors point to an A19 or A19 Pro chip, more RAM, and the same N1 networking chip as the new HomePod. The Apple TV might also feature a built-in microphone so you can issue commands without the remote. Additionally, the remote itself might gain a speaker to help you find it—though we would prefer they include a U2 Ultra Wideband chip for Precision Finding.
- Expected Price: $199 to $249.
LG and ADT Smarthome Partnerships
Apple is rumored to be partnering with LG on a new lineup of co-designed smart home accessories, built specifically for deep integration with the Apple Home ecosystem.
- The LG Lineup: Expect a smart deadbolt lock, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and a floodlight camera.
- The ADT Connection: In addition to LG, Apple may be forming a partnership with ADT. While LG focuses on the hardware, ADT could provide professional in-home installation and broader home security monitoring for the new smart home hub.
Stayed Tuned!
We will be covering everything announced right here after the event wraps up. Subscribe to the newsletter so you don't miss our full breakdown, and let us know in the comments: Will you be picking up the new smart home hub if it drops at $350?