Apple 's smart home products seem to be entering a new era after several years of limited updates. The HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K have been around for a long time, with current versions now four to six years old. This situation has created the feeling that Apple has temporarily left this segment of the market on the back burner.
However, developments around artificial intelligence , and especially the new generation of Siri, seem to be changing the data. Apple reportedly considered it necessary to mature its AI capabilities before proceeding with a broader renewal of home hardware. Now, information indicates that the company is planning a series of new devices that could transform its ecosystem into a more complete smart home platform.
New HomePod mini in the fall
At the top of the upcoming updates is the HomePod mini, which is expected to get significant internal improvements. The information speaks of replacing the S5 with a newer chip, most likely the S9 or an even more modern model. At the same time, it is not excluded that we will see new color options, an upgraded wireless chipset and improvements in sound quality.
See also: Apple Home: The HomePod experience as a whole-home audio system
The biggest change, however, won't necessarily be in the technical specifications listed on the spec sheet. The real difference is expected to come from the integration of Siri's new AI capabilities. This could transform the HomePod mini from a simple smart speaker into a central point of interaction with the entire Apple ecosystem.
Apple TV 4K with a more powerful processor
Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly preparing a new Apple TV 4K, with the A15 Bionic giving way to the A17 Pro. Although this chip is no longer new, the upgrade will offer significantly greater processing capabilities and could meet the demands of artificial intelligence functions.
Of particular interest is the possibility that some Apple Intelligence will be performed locally on the device. This could reduce the need to send data to the cloud and also reduce response time. A modified remote control is also expected, although details about its design remain limited.
Current prices are $129 for the HomePod mini and $199 for the Apple TV 4K. The question now is whether Apple will maintain these price levels in the new generations.
The "HomePad" wants to become the center of the home
More ambitious is the plan for a new smart home hub, which has been unofficially known as the “HomePad.” The device has reportedly been in development for some time and could be unveiled between the fall and early next year.
The product is expected to feature a square display measuring around seven inches and run on a new operating system, known internally as homeOS. It will be able to control compatible home devices, make FaceTime calls and act as a primary point of contact for Siri AI.
The A18 processor could provide the power needed to handle more demanding tasks. Apple is also reportedly considering two different versions: one that mounts to the wall with a magnetic system and one that connects to a speaker dock.
See also: Apple is preparing a Virtual Shopping Assistant in the Apple Store
New products coming in second year
The refresh doesn't stop there. Apple is also reportedly considering a new version of the full-size HomePod, with a more powerful processor and support for newer Siri features. While the timeline remains unclear, the device is considered an active project.
At a later stage, likely from late 2026 onwards, the company is expected to expand its presence in the smart home even further. Plans include a security camera and a smart doorbell, two categories in which Apple has not yet had a presence with its own hardware.
See also: iPhone Air 2027: Apple is preparing a dual-camera upgrade
The most ambitious idea is a desktop robot
Even more interesting is the plan for an advanced version of the HomePad. The device is said to feature a larger screen of around nine inches and a robotic arm that would allow it to change orientation and interact more naturally with the user.
If the information is confirmed, Apple will no longer be limited to selling individual smart home products. It will attempt to create an integrated environment where Siri, artificial intelligence, displays, sensors and home appliances will work as a single system. And this may be the biggest change the company is preparing for the smart home.
