Over the past few years, Apple has introduced a handful of products and accessories that fall under the company’s walled garden of an ecosystem. The company has plans to announce many more in the coming years, including a Smart Home Hub device with an iPad-like display. Mark Gurman has shared more details on the device, how it will fit into the company’s existing product line, and if it will feature a mid-range or a higher-end price.
Apple’s smart home hub will sit at a premium level with a hefty price, driving only specific use cases
Apple Intelligence has opened doors for additional products, and before its launch, the existence of a smart home hub would only have limited use cases. Mark Gurman stated in his latest Power On newsletter that Apple will release its tablet robot, a new product category, between 2026 and 2027, aligning with the company’s broader plans for a “product renaissance” in 2027.
In terms of design, Apple’s smart home hub will feature an iPad-like display attached to a robotic limb, suggesting a movable or articulated arm that enhances functionality, potentially for interacting and positioning purposes. The device was previously reported to be an amalgamation of the HomePod and an iPad, and based on how Gurman is painting the picture, the rumors were on point.
As mentioned earlier, the smart home hub will feature built-in Apple Intelligence, which indicates that most operations will be conducted via voice commands. It will also serve as a central hub for home automation, connecting all accessories around the house into a single unit. The company will introduce a revamped version of HomeOS, making it easier for users to control devices and accessories.
Apple’s smart home hub will also include front-facing cameras, which will be used specifically for FaceTime video calls, leveraging an iPad-like display for enhanced communication. Based on our understanding, there could be support for iMessage as well, as the device will feature a bigger display, and having all of your contacts and communication services in one place would make a big difference.
In terms of price, Mark Gurman states that the smart home hub will be available to users for around $1,000, which positions it as a premium device in Apple’s ecosystem. It remains to be seen how the company will market the product. Apple has appointed former Apple Watch and Apple Car chief Kevin Lynch to oversee the project, which shows that there will be a focus on innovative hardware integrations. We will keep you posted with more details on the upcoming device, so be sure to keep an eye out.
