Overview
- Apple is reportedly planning to launch its lower-end smart home hub, code-named J490, by the end of 2025.
- The touchscreen device is expected to run Apple’s new homeOS, offer a 7-inch square display, built-in camera and battery, and support video apps including FaceTime.
- Development delays have been caused by challenges in enhancing Siri and integrating Apple Intelligence, though internal testing has reportedly begun.
- A premium model, code-named J595, is in the works with a robotic arm and AI “personality,” but some advanced features have been pulled to keep production on schedule.
- Apple’s hub is designed to compete with Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub as a central smart home controller.