Apple may release an iPad-like smart home display next year

Apple is preparing to take a new step in the smart home field with rumors that it may be released next year. Accordingly BloombergMark Gurman writes in it Power On Today’s newsletter reports that the display will use a new operating system called homeOS, which is based on the Apple TV’s tvOS (very similar to the software that currently powers HomePods).

Gurman reported that the screen will run Apple apps such as Calendar, Notes and Home, and that Apple is testing magnetic prototypes for wall mounting. And it will support Apple Intelligence, something Apple HomePods don’t currently do.

Another recent rumor was that an upcoming “HomeAccessory” device would be square-shaped and users would be able to use hand gestures to control the device remotely. 9to5Mac wrote earlier this week. And MacRumors reported on visible code references to the device And main operating system.

A screen like this feels more realistic than Apple’s robotic display idea. It might also be less complicated, and hopefully cheaper, than trying to use the iPad as a dedicated smart home controller (I tried; not a great experience!) We’ll find out if and when it launches – which doesn’t sound too far off the mark to work either.