The rumoured device could feature a 7-inch screen, tvOS-based software, Siri AI and smart home controls.
The home hub could launch between October and early 2027
Apple is reportedly preparing its retail stores for several new Home products this autumn. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple is planning significant changes to store layouts, including new display space for upcoming devices. An updated Apple TV and HomePod mini are already expected, but the scale of the work could point to a third product. Apple's long-rumoured smart home hub with a display may finally be nearing launch after several delays.
According to Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter, Apple is modifying the Avenues in some of its newer stores and adding more accessory bays. These sections typically house products including HomePod, Apple TV, AirPods and Beats, as well as third-party accessories. The work is expected to accommodate refreshed versions of the Apple TV and HomePod mini. The Apple TV could feature an A17 Pro or newer chip and a new Siri Remote, while the HomePod mini may get an S9-series chip, improved audio, a red finish, Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.
Gurman also links the larger retail overhaul to Apple's rumoured smart home hub with a display, which has been referred to as HomePod with Display or HomePad. The device is expected to feature a 7-inch square screen, with reports pointing to separate tabletop and wall-mounted versions.
The hub is tipped to use a tvOS-based operating system with Siri AI and a widget-focused interface. It could include an A18 chip, smart home controls, support for calendars and notes, photo-frame functionality and FaceTime through a built-in camera. Reports have also mentioned access to security camera feeds and controls for connected devices such as smart locks.
References reportedly found in macOS Tahoe 26.7 suggest the interface could include a Widget Gallery for customising widgets, icons and clock faces, along with suggestions based on a connected iPhone. Earlier reports have also mentioned personalised features for different household members, potentially using facial recognition.
Apple could use the redesigned retail sections to give customers a hands-on look at the hub and explain how it works with other smart home products. This would be particularly useful for a new product category that may require more explanation than an updated speaker or set-top box.
The smart home hub has reportedly been delayed several times, partly because of Apple's work on its revamped Siri. Current reports place its launch between October 2026 and early 2027. Meanwhile, the HomePod mini has gone more than 2,000 days without a major update, and the Apple TV 4K is also due for a refresh.
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