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Apple Plans Smart-Home Hub Alongside Updated Devices
Apple is reportedly making a new device for controlling things in the home.
It may have a screen about six inches wide.
People could use it to control smart-home accessories, make video calls, play music and see photos.
The device may also use a smarter version of Siri.
Siri could recognise different people in the household and show them personalised information.
Apple may announce the hub on October 13.
The company is also expected to update the HomePod mini and Apple TV.
These devices may keep their current designs but receive faster processors.
Apple already uses some of its products as hubs for compatible smart-home devices.
Apple is reportedly preparing a new smart-home hub for launch on October 13.
The device, internally known as J490, may feature a roughly 6-inch square display.
The hub is expected to control smart-home accessories, support video calls, play music and display photos.
Apple may introduce an upgraded AI-powered Siri experience that recognises household members.
Refreshed HomePod mini and Apple TV models are also expected, potentially with faster processors.
- Who
- Apple, under CEO John Ternus, is reportedly developing the products.
- What
- Apple is expected to announce a new smart-home hub, an updated HomePod mini and a new Apple TV.
- Where
- The products are intended for use in homes; Apple currently sells the HomePod mini and Apple TV in India.
- When
- The products are expected to launch or be unveiled on October 13; the year is not specified.
- Why
- Apple is reportedly seeking a more visible home interface for controlling smart-home devices and bringing Siri deeper into the home.
Key facts
- Reported launch date
- October 13
- Internal device name
- J490
- Expected hub display
- Roughly 6 inches square
- Expected hub functions
- Smart-home control, information display, video calls, music playback and photo display
- HomePod mini update
- Expected to be the first update since its 2020 debut
- Apple TV update
- Expected to be the first new set-top box since 2022
- Current India prices
- HomePod mini: Rs 15,900; Apple TV 4K: from Rs 25,900
Sources
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