Apple is rumored to be preparing a bold entry into the smart home market with a new wall-mounted device that promises seamless integration and unique features.

This upcoming device, which resembles a compact iPad, could bring Apple’s ecosystem deeper into homes, challenging established players like Amazon and Google.


Apple New Smart Home Device

Here’s what you need to know about this anticipated smart home display and how it might differ from existing devices.


Apple’s Smart Home Display: A Fresh Take on Home Control

Mark Gurman from Bloomberg recently revealed that Apple has been working for three years on a smart home hub—a tablet-like device with a 6-inch display designed to control smart appliances, interact with Siri, and support videoconferencing.

The design resembles a square iPad with a camera positioned at the top for easy video calls, as well as internal speakers and a rechargeable battery. This new device could launch as soon as March 2025.

Apple’s rumored smart home hub aims to compete with devices like the Google Nest Hub and Amazon’s Echo Show. While those products have a head start in the market, Apple’s device may include innovations that help it stand out.

Leveraging Apple Intelligence, this smart hub will use advanced AI capabilities that Apple introduced to users in late October 2024. 

The device’s primary function will be home control, but Apple may be planning future iterations with even more innovative features, like a robotic arm to allow the display to move around—a possible long-term enhancement Apple is reportedly exploring.


What Sets Apple’s Device Apart?

Apple’s smart home hub is expected to offer unique features. Unlike its competitors, it will prioritize privacy, a key concern in today’s smart home environment.

Apple already supports high privacy standards in its current products, such as HomeKit Secure Video, which ensures end-to-end encryption for camera footage. This could provide a significant advantage for users wary of security issues associated with other brands.

For instance, Amazon’s Ring and Google’s Nest have received criticism for privacy policies that allow sharing footage with law enforcement under certain conditions, often without user consent. Apple’s privacy-first approach may attract users seeking a more secure alternative in smart home surveillance.


Integration with Apple’s Ecosystem

Apple’s smart home hub will reportedly have deep integration with the Apple ecosystem, including HomeKit and Matter support, to control various smart home devices easily. The operating system will likely draw from both watchOS, used in Apple Watches, and iPhone’s Standby mode, creating a familiar, streamlined experience for Apple users.

The interface will be customizable, allowing users to add widgets for quick access to preferred devices and features. Security will be a priority, with options to receive alerts and camera footage updates in real-time. 

Apple Intelligence will handle voice commands via Siri, aiming for seamless voice control throughout the home. The device may also offer popular Apple apps, such as Notes, Calendar, and FaceTime, giving it multifunctional capabilities.


Smart Home Accessories on Apple’s Horizon

Apple may be working on additional smart home products, including a smart camera for indoor security and baby monitoring, designed to complement the home hub. 

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently reported that Apple is developing a smart home camera scheduled for manufacturing in 2026. This camera would feature wireless connectivity and deep integration with Apple’s intelligence and voice assistant Siri.

The addition of a smart camera could bring a comprehensive security solution to Apple’s smart home ecosystem. With privacy as a central value, Apple could see considerable demand for these devices, especially as trust issues have affected competitors like Ring.


Built-In Apple Intelligence and AI-Powered Control

Apple’s new device could be a game-changer, particularly if Apple Intelligence enhances its ability to manage smart devices. Since Apple Intelligence launched, its features have included Writing Tools and Notification Summaries, with more advanced tools anticipated in the future. 

This smart hub could mark the beginning of more AI-enabled functionalities for Apple products, helping users manage devices and access information with ease.


A Command Center for the Apple Home

Designed for voice control via Siri, Apple’s smart home hub will likely serve as a central command center for any HomeKit or Matter-compatible devices. It’s positioned to support various devices while delivering robust voice-activated management. 

Though the device won’t initially offer App Store access, it will feature key Apple apps for added convenience and functionality, likely adding to its appeal as a multifunctional device.


Potential Pricing and Availability

While Apple has yet to confirm pricing, sources indicate that the smart home hub will be competitive with similar devices. Amazon’s Echo Show 8 is priced at $149.99, and Google’s Echo Hub at $179.99, suggesting Apple’s device will likely fall in a similar range. 

This price positioning could attract both Apple loyalists and new users intrigued by the device’s features and ecosystem integration.


Apple’s Accessories and Design Options

Apple is expected to offer attachments for the home hub to extend its versatility. A base with speakers could enhance audio quality, making it suitable for a kitchen or nightstand. 

With silver and black color options, the device will match various home decors, appealing to users with a preference for sleek, minimalist design.


The Future of Apple’s Smart Home Lineup

As Apple continues to develop its smart home offerings, the upcoming smart hub marks just the beginning. If this initial device proves successful, Apple may further invest in this product category, possibly introducing other accessories and advanced features. 

Future devices could bring even more interactive elements, further solidifying Apple’s position in the smart home market.


Conclusion

Apple’s entry into the smart home space may be late, but it promises something unique. Apple’s rumored smart home display, expected in March 2025, will be a compact yet powerful home command center, integrating Apple’s privacy-first approach and AI capabilities.

By combining seamless integration, customizable controls, and a strong focus on privacy, Apple could make a significant impact in the smart home market, positioning its device as a trusted, multifunctional hub for modern homes.