According to renowned Apple analyst Mark Gurman, the smart home hub device similar to an iPad that Apple is developing will be delayed until mid-2026 for its official release. Gurman previously predicted the device would launch as early as 2025, but it has been repeatedly postponed due to technical issues with the Apple Intelligence version of Siri.
Similar in appearance to Google Nest Hub, with more advanced features
It has been revealed that this smart home hub will be equipped with an integrated 7-inch display and speaker system, and its overall appearance is similar to the Google Nest Hub. Gurman described it as having a "square appearance," featuring a black or white narrow bezel design with rounded corners and a semi-circular top base, reflecting Apple's一贯 minimalist design style.
The device's code name is J490, and it will run a new operating system codenamed "Charismatic." Unlike the existing iOS, macOS, and tvOS, Charismatic is specifically designed for multiple family members to use together. Its user interface centers on a clock face display and Apple app widgets, and it may feature a Siri interface with a virtual avatar, making Siri's appearance more personalized. It is reported that Apple is testing a visual representation of Siri similar to the Mac Finder icon.
Facial recognition for personalized experiences
The front-facing camera of this smart home hub will have facial scanning capabilities, automatically identifying users when they approach and providing personalized content and features for each family member. This design concept reflects Apple's emphasis on personalized user experiences.
Notably, this device will not have a dedicated App Store, but it can run native Apple applications such as Calendar, Camera, Music, Reminders, and Notes. Apple expects users to primarily control the smart home hub through voice commands, although the device is equipped with a touchscreen as an auxiliary operation method.
LLM-powered new Siri as the technological core
Siri will be the core function of this smart home hub, and Apple is developing a new version of Siri powered by large language models. Apple hopes that the new Siri will deeply integrate users' personal data to provide a richer and smarter interactive experience.
This feature was initially planned to be included in iOS 18, but it will now be released as an extended LLM version. Gurman revealed that Apple may be preparing to launch the LLM version of Siri "as early as next spring." At the same time, a new visually redesigned version of Siri for iPhone and iPad may also be released at some point in 2026.
Exploring technical routes, multiple solutions under development
Currently, Apple is testing two different technical routes simultaneously: one based on its internal AI model for an LLM version of Siri, and another using technologies from external companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic. Apple has not yet made a final decision on which technical solution to adopt, and this parallel development strategy reflects the company's cautious approach to technology choices.
Laying the foundation for future products
Notably, the Charismatic operating system and the new Siri will not only be applied to the smart home hub but will also serve as the technological basis for Apple's independently developed desktop robot. According to Gurman, this desktop robot is planned to be launched in 2027, indicating that Apple is building a complete smart home ecosystem.
References to the J490 device have already been found in Apple's code, confirming that the product is indeed in active development. Although the release date has been delayed, this smart home hub is expected to provide significant support for Apple's competition in the smart home market.