The Apple “HomePod with a screen,” also referred to as the “HomePad,” has been the subject of various rumours and reports. Unfortunately, the tech giant omitted mentioning such a device during its major launch event at the start of the month. However, if a recent report is to be believed, we won’t be waiting for the device any longer, as the device is allegedly slated to launch on 13 October.
This information comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who writes that the “smart-home hub code-named J490″ is allegedly “at the centre” of the company’s strategy for the smart home. He further claims that the company will launch two other devices alongside it: an updated HomePod mini and a new Apple TV 4K Box. All of these new products will supposedly support the Siri AI.
In case you missed it, the HomePad has been rumoured to feature a 6-inch display that can either be placed on a countertop or mounted on a wall. The display will reportedly be as thick as an iPhone and have the same bezel size as older iPad models.
For the countertop version, the display is said to sit above a round metal base that houses the speakers and microphones. A metal arm will connect the display to the base, allowing users to tilt the screen forwards or backwards. Meanwhile, the wall-mounted version is expected to feature a slimmer base underneath the display for housing the speakers and microphones.
Regardless of the version, it seems the HomePad will reportedly rely on USB-C for power and won’t feature a built-in battery, meaning it will need to remain connected to a power source. It is also expected to be available in Apple’s standard grey aluminium finish.
On the software side, the HomePad is expected to feature an interface similar to the iPad, including a two-panel layout for apps such as Messages. It will reportedly allow users to control smart home devices, make video calls, play music and display photo slideshows. The device is also said to support intercom-style calls, while voice and facial recognition will allow it to identify individual users and provide personalised responses and content.
With all that said, do keep in mind that these details are based on reports and are by no means concrete or official. We’ll have to wait for Apple’s official announcement to know everything there is to know about the device. If Gurman’s report is to be believed, however, we won’t have to wait much longer before the tech giant unveils its new range of smart home devices.
(Source: Bloomberg)
