Apple is poised to make a significant entry into the smart home market with the anticipated launch of a new AI-powered smart home hub by the end of this year. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the device, internally codenamed “J490,” is expected to feature a 7-inch display, built-in camera, and run on a new operating system called homeOS.
The smart home hub is designed to function as a central control unit for various smart home devices, integrating seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem. It will support Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of AI features, and is reported to include functionalities such as FaceTime video calls, smart home controls, and a dashboard inspired by the iPhone’s StandBy mode.
In addition to the standard model, Apple is reportedly developing a more advanced version of the smart home hub, codenamed “J595,” which may feature a robotic arm capable of moving the display to follow users around a room. This higher-end model is expected to launch within the next couple of years, as the company continues to refine its features and address development challenges.
The introduction of this smart home hub marks Apple’s strategic move to compete with established players like Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub. By leveraging its existing ecosystem and focusing on user privacy and seamless integration, Apple aims to offer a compelling alternative in the smart home market.
While the company has not officially confirmed the release date, the anticipated launch by the end of 2025 suggests that Apple is confident in its ability to deliver a product that meets its high standards for quality and user experience. The smart home hub is expected to be a significant addition to Apple’s product lineup, potentially setting new benchmarks for smart home technology.
As the year progresses, more details are likely to emerge about the smart home hub’s capabilities, pricing, and availability. Consumers and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how Apple’s entry into the smart home arena unfolds.
