According to a new report, Apple is set to enter the smart home market with a groundbreaking AI-powered device, expected to launch as soon as March 2025. This six-inch display, square and somewhat iPad-like, is designed to serve as a “command center” for controlling various home devices and providing seamless access to apps and Apple services.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s smart home display will offer key features like FaceTime, music playback through built-in speakers, and proximity sensors that tailor the display’s interface based on a person’s distance.

The display will be available in silver and black and will primarily use a touch interface reminiscent of watchOS and iPhone’s StandBy mode. However, it will heavily rely on voice commands powered by Apple’s new “Apple Intelligence” AI, allowing users to access apps, manage tasks, and control connected smart home devices with ease.

The device’s customizable home screen will support widgets for essentials such as weather updates, appointments, and photos, along with a dock for quick access to apps. Intercom functionality will allow multiple units to communicate across different rooms, and the system will integrate with Apple HomeKit-compatible products like security cameras and thermostats, enhancing home security by providing alerts and camera footage.

Built with a rechargeable battery, the device will come with accessories like a wall-mounting plate and an optional speaker base for central placement in the home. Apple has further expansion plans, including the possibility of developing its own line of smart home accessories and even a robotic version of the display that could autonomously move around the home.

With this release, Apple aims to compete with similar devices from Google (Nest Hub Max) and Amazon (Echo Hub). Tim Cook has reportedly prioritized this project, which has been under development for over three years, as a major push into the smart home industry.

(via Bloomberg)

Categorized in:

iPadNews