On this week's episode of The MacRumors Show, we look ahead to Apple's recently announced October 13 event and its expected push into the smart home market, including a dedicated home hub, the HomePod mini 2, and a new Apple TV.
Apple is expected to introduce its first smart home hub, a new HomePod mini, and an updated Apple TV 4K, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Siri AI is expected to be central to all three devices, following years of delays.
The impending launch also comes amid Apple's reported efforts under CEO John Ternus to introduce products more frequently and accelerate development. Moving beyond predictable spring and fall release cycles could give Apple more opportunities to experiment, particularly in categories where existing products have gone years without substantial hardware changes.
The home hub is expected to feature a square 6-inch display, with a tabletop version resembling the iMac G4 and a separate wall-mounted model. Its new operating system reportedly combines customizable clock and photo displays, Apple Watch-style app icons, and iPad-like layouts. A range of apps including FaceTime, Music, Calendar, Notes, and more should make it useful for quick interactions throughout the day. Facial and voice recognition will bring up individual profiles, while a guest mode will hide personal information from visitors. The device is rumored to start at around $350.
The Apple TV 4K is rumored to tout an A19 or A19 Pro chip, additional memory, Apple's N1 networking chip, and an updated Siri Remote, while retaining its existing design. The hardware should improve gaming performance and enable Apple Intelligence and Siri AI.
The HomePod mini 2 is also expected to retain its current design, with leaked images revealing green, pink, and lighter blue finishes alongside white and black. A faster S-series chip would support Siri AI. A new full-sized HomePod is reportedly planned for a later date. Separately, software findings point to four-HomePod surround sound mode.
Apple's reported collaboration with LG could help expand the ecosystem around the home hub. The planned lineup includes a video doorbell, deadbolt lock, thermostat, and temperature sensor, along with indoor, outdoor, and floodlight cameras. These would carry LG branding, with Apple reportedly contributing to their development.
Apple's longer-term plans also include its own privacy-focused camera and sensor, reportedly designed to analyze the home without recording video. A higher-end home hub with a 9-inch display mounted on a robotic arm also reportedly remains in development.
Apple has now announced a product event for Tuesday, October 13, sharing a "Welcome home" teaser. Selected members of the media have been invited to an "Apple Experience" in Tribeca, New York, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The MacRumors Show has its own YouTube channel, so make sure you're subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips.
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If you haven't already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up to hear our discussion with photographer and videographer Tyler Stalman about whether the iPhone 18 Pro's camera is a compelling reason to upgrade, how its new features affect everyday shooting, and what photographers gain or give up with the iPhone Duo.
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