Apple Reportedly Developing Smart Home Hub with 7-Inch Screen for 2025 Launch

The rumored device could mark Apple's most significant step into the smart home market, combining HomePod functionality with a touchscreen interface.

Apple is reportedly planning to release a smart home hub with a 7-inch touchscreen later this year, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
The device is described as a smaller, more affordable iPad-like product that integrates HomePod capabilities and allows users to control smart home appliances, make FaceTime calls, and more.
Expected features include an A18 chip, Apple Intelligence support, a customizable widget-based home screen, and a built-in camera for video calls and security monitoring.
The hub is rumored to run a new operating system called 'homeOS,' designed to enhance integration with Apple's HomeKit ecosystem.
Analysts suggest this product could compete directly with similar devices from Amazon and Google, such as the Echo Show and Nest Hub.