Apple is reportedly working on a new smart home device that could blend elements from the iPad, HomePod, and Apple TV into a single product, codenamed “HomeAccessory.” Rumors of this device have been circulating for a couple of years, with the latest information suggesting that it will feature a square display—quite distinct from the iPad’s usual rectangular design. This smart home hub would serve as a central controller for HomeKit and Matter devices, offering enhanced capabilities for managing your smart home ecosystem.

The internal name for this device is “HomeAccessory,” according to sources like 9to5Mac, and its standout feature might be a squarish display. It’s said to include a built-in camera for FaceTime and gesture control, as well as the ability to identify individuals and offer personalized responses. These features are geared toward making smart home interactions more intuitive, whether through voice commands, touch, or hand gestures. Such a design could provide a highly customizable, user-friendly interface for controlling various aspects of home automation.

This smart home hub is expected to be powered by Apple’s A18 chip, which is also used in the latest iPhone models. The device could benefit from Apple Intelligence features and a smarter Siri, making it a powerful competitor in the smart display market. It’s rumored to function not only as a media player but also as an AirPlay receiver, much like the current HomePod.

There are hints that this new device could launch as early as spring 2025, though that timeline could shift. Apple appears to be focusing heavily on creating a hybrid product that combines the versatility of the iPad with the advanced audio and smart home capabilities of the HomePod, all underpinned by Apple TV-like features for media consumption.

The exact pricing is still up in the air, but rumors suggest that there could be multiple versions, potentially including a more affordable model without some of the advanced features like robotic arms. The inclusion of a customizable Lock Screen, similar to those on Apple TVs running tvOS 18, further hints at the seamless integration of this new product into Apple’s wider ecosystem.

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