Apple HomePad release date tipped as insider details design and features

Apple is expected to announce new smart home devices in October, and these include the new HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K, as well as the long-rumored HomePad hub. A new report now shares the release date for these products and sheds light on some of the features, most of which have been talked about in the past.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple will launch the new smart home devices on October 13. This will be a critical product expansion for the company under CEO John Ternus. The Cupertino giant has always been behind Amazon and Google when it comes to smart home devices, but with the new and improved Siri AI, the company is hoping to grab more of the market share.

Apple HomePad in two form factors

As per the report, the focus of the launch will be the new HomePad, a smart-home hub with the internal codename J490. Notably, Gurman hasn’t mentioned the name specifically, but past leaks and rumors have suggested it will be called the HomePad. Gurman also reiterates that there will be two versions of this device, a desktop hub and a wall-mounted variant, both of which will require power from an outlet.

While previous leaks mentioned a 7-inch display, the new report claims it will be a 6-inch square display with an overall design reminiscent of the iMac G4 from 2002. The display itself will be about as thick as an iPhone, with thick bezels all around. The round base will have multiple rings of perforated speaker holes with a polished metal arm holding the display.

On the other hand, the wall-mountable version with the codename J491 is said to feature a thin square base with speakers and microphones that sits below the display.

Both versions of the HomePad are meant to “serve multiple members of a household” by recognizing the presence and voice of whoever is speaking in order to show personalized content. There will also be a visitor mode where private information will be hidden. Of course, the HomePad will be capable of controlling compatible smart home devices like thermostats, door locks, and more. FaceTime calls will be possible as well through the single front camera.

Furthermore, Gurman adds that there is a third version in development that is larger and more adjustable. It is said to come with a 9-inch display mounted to a robotic arm allowing for 360-degree movement.

As for software, the interface has been reportedly built similarly to the recently leaked StandBy Mode for the iPhone Duo. It will also allow for iPhone widgets and come with the frequently used apps in Apple’s ecosystem.