Apple is likely to introduce three new smart home products at the special "Welcome Home" event scheduled for October 13, 2026.
According to ITNA citing 9to5Mac, the smart home display called HomePad, a new generation Apple TV 4K, and the HomePod mini 2 are expected to be the main products of this event. These products, focusing on Apple’s artificial intelligence and the Siri voice assistant, could play a more prominent role in Apple’s smart home ecosystem.
Apple yesterday confirmed holding this event with the slogan "Welcome Home." The program includes an in-person gathering of reporters in New York and an online video presentation. However, the company has not yet announced the exact timing of the announcements and introduction videos.
The HomePad smart display will likely be the centerpiece of the ceremony. According to reports, this device is a square display approximately 6 inches in size that sits on a hemispherical base. There may be two versions: a model for wall mounting and a model for placement on a table or counter. The device’s design has also been likened to an iMac G4.
One of the HomePad’s important features will be recognizing different people in the home. The device reportedly can determine who is speaking to it or approaching it and adjust the display content according to the person. Its software will also be a combination of iPad, Apple Watch, and Apple TV features and will take inspiration from widgets and a standby mode.
The new Apple TV 4K may also be updated after about four years. If reports are correct, the device’s exterior design will not change much, but an A19 or A19 Pro chip will power it to support Siri’s AI capabilities and Apple Intelligence. It may also be possible to use four HomePods as a surround sound system when connected to Apple TV.
Alongside these two products, the HomePod mini 2 will be introduced with a chip faster than the current generation S5 processor. Pink, white, green, blue, and black are potential color options for this model.
Apple is also working with LG on smart home accessories, including a smart lock, thermostat, doorbell, and security cameras. However, according to reports, the release of these products will take at least a few more months, and it is still unclear whether they will be showcased at next week’s event.
This event could signal Apple’s more serious focus on the smart home market - an area where competition has become more important with the introduction of AI capabilities. Of course, the details of the mentioned products are still largely based on reports and rumors, and we must wait for the official unveiling.