Apple HomePod with a screen now expected in 2026: Mark Gurman

Apple's eagerly awaited smart home hub, which was initially slated for a 2025 release, is now projected to launch in 2026, according to insights from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg. This innovative device, designed to act as a central controller for HomeKit-enabled accessories, has faced setbacks attributed to Apple's ongoing enhancements to its next-generation Siri assistant. Internally referred to as J490, this smart home hub is expected to blend the features of a HomePod with a compact touchscreen display. Development has been ongoing, and the device is rumored to boast a 6- to 7-inch screen that could be square in shape. It may also come with various mounting options and a detachable speaker base, allowing for versatile use across different home environments. The delay primarily stems from Apple's reliance on an upgraded, AI-driven Siri. This new version of the voice assistant is anticipated to utilize "Apple Intelligence" alongside an enhanced App Intents framework, enabling more context-aware interactions and better control over third-party applications. These improvements were originally planned for the rollout of iOS 18.4, which has also seen delays, consequently pushing back the hardware launch. Gurman emphasizes that the smart hub's functionality is closely tied to these advancements in AI technology. Without the necessary software infrastructure, Apple has chosen to postpone both the hardware release and its associated features. The previous target of March 2025 has been abandoned, with 2026 now viewed as a more feasible timeline. In addition to its role in smart home automation, the device is expected to facilitate FaceTime video calls, showcase interactive widgets, and possibly integrate with a new Apple-designed home security camera. Recent findings in the iOS 18.6 developer beta suggest a screen resolution similar to that of the iPad mini, supporting speculation about its display size and capabilities. Earlier predictions from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicated that the hub would begin mass production by the third quarter of 2025. However, this timeline is now in question due to the ongoing software delays. Meanwhile, internal testing appears to be progressing, with select Apple employees reportedly testing early versions of the device in real-world settings as recently as March.