Apple is reportedly working on a new piece of hardware that will change the way people interact with their smart homes. It's a home hub with a display, designed to act as a central control paneland access point for Siri and Apple's AI. While the company hasn't officially announced the device, the latest rumors suggest it could arrive as early as 2026.
Widget Gallery reveals the design
New evidence found in macOS Tahoe 26.7 appears to reveal details about the device's user interface. References to the so-called "Widget Gallery" were found in code associated with the product, which is internally referred to as J490.
This feature is not unknown to users of the Apple ecosystem. Widgets are already used on iPhone, iPad and Mac, offering quick access to information such as weather, calendar, reminders or music. However, in the new home hub, they will likely take on a central role, turning the home screen into a personalized dashboard.
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Widgets from iPhone on the home screen
One of the most interesting elements emerging from the code is the iPhone integration. Widgets installed on a connected iPhone will apparently be able to be suggested in the home hub, without necessarily requiring a separate installation of the app on the device.
The idea is similar to how certain iPhone widgets can be displayed on a Mac. The system could then bring information from a personal phone to a larger screen in the home, creating a more unified experience.
At the same time, it seems that there will also be support for third-party app widgets. This could significantly increase personalization capabilities and give developers a greater role in the new platform.
Privacy priority
Sharing the device within the home, however, raises a significant privacy. Apple appears to be addressing this with a mechanism that ties the viewing of widget contents to the presence of the main connected device in the home.
This way, a widget can be available in the hub, but the personal data it contains will only be visible when the corresponding iPhone is in the space. This approach could prove particularly important for information such as personal appointments, messages, calendars, or data from other apps.
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Smart Stack will adjust the screen
Apple also appears to be bringing its feature Smart Stack, which will allow widgets to automatically rotate based on the time of day or user needs, so that the screen displays the most useful information at any given time.
In the morning, for example, the calendar and weather could be displayed, while later the screen could prioritize music, reminders, or smart home functions.
Not App Store, but Apple apps
Despite its smart nature, the home hub is not expected to have its own App Store. However, it appears that it will support several core Apple apps, including Safari, Apple News, Apple Music, Notes, Calendar, Photos, and Home.
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Selecting a widget could open the corresponding full app, offering access to more information. Meanwhile, references to a “Face Gallery” suggest that Apple is planning different watch faces for the home screen.
A control panel for the smart home
The device is expected to feature a square screen measuring about 7 inches and can be placed either on a stand or on the wall. At the same time, its integration with HomeKit and Home automations could make it a true control center for lights, thermostats, cameras and other compatible devices.
If it finally launches in 2026, the home hub could be another major step for Apple towards a more personalized and AI-driven smart home, with Siri at the center of the experience.
