Apple to launch smart home hub and new hardware on October 13

Apple is reportedly preparing to expand its smart home presence with a major product announcement scheduled for October 13, 2026. According to reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company plans to unveil three key devices: a new smart home hub, an updated HomePod mini, and a new Apple TV 4K.

The centerpiece is a smart home hub, internally codenamed J490, which is expected to feature a roughly 6-inch square display. The device may offer two configurations: a tabletop version with a mechanical arm reminiscent of the classic iMac G4 design, and a wall-mounted version. The hub will serve as a central control unit for the home, utilizing a new Siri AI-driven operating system to provide personalized experiences through facial and voice recognition.

Both the HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K are expected to retain their current designs but will receive upgraded processors to support advanced Siri AI capabilities. The HomePod mini may also debut in new colors such as pink and green. Additionally, reports suggest Apple is developing privacy-focused security cameras that use AI sensors to provide text-based descriptions of activity rather than traditional video recording.