Apple's HomeKit, a significant home automation platform, may Face Discontinuation, But Expects Continued Anticipation for a New HomePod Release
Apple's smart home ecosystem is undergoing significant changes, as hinted by recent updates and rumours surrounding the tvOS 26 beta software and broader smart home trends.
Current Status and New HomePod Releases
The tech giant is reportedly preparing for a new version of the HomePod mini, expected to launch in late 2025. This updated model will feature an updated S-series chip architecture (likely S11, similar to that used in Apple Watch Series 11), providing a significant performance boost over the current S5 chip. The refreshed HomePod mini is also rumoured to include a new Apple-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo chip supporting Wi-Fi 6E and potentially new colour options.
There is also speculation about a HomePod with a built-in screen, acting as a smart home "Command Center," featuring a 7-inch display and offering capabilities beyond smart speaker functions such as FaceTime, video viewing, and basic app usage. This device is envisioned as a smaller, less expensive iPad-like controller for smart home products. However, this product appears to be delayed due to software development issues and is now expected to enter mass production in Q3 2025, with a launch potentially in early 2026.
Additionally, Apple is reportedly working on a clever integration of a HomePod smart speaker merged with an Apple TV, which would include features like a camera for FaceTime on the TV and enhanced smart home functions. This concept is still in the early development stage and has no confirmed release timeline.
Impact of tvOS 26 Beta
The tvOS 26 beta update has revealed potential enhancements for Apple's smart home ecosystem. The update hints at enhanced performance with an M-series chip architecture, enabling support for higher frame rates (120 Hz gaming) and potentially 8K video playback on Apple TV devices. These improvements could indirectly benefit smart home control via the Apple TV hub.
However, no direct groundbreaking HomePod hardware features were confirmed through the tvOS 26 beta. The software updates fit into the broader ecosystem improvements, promising better integration and control of smart home devices.
Summary
- The HomePod mini refresh with an updated chip and connectivity improvements is imminent, likely late 2025.
- The HomePod with display ("Command Center") is delayed but still planned, targeting early 2026 release.
- Integration with Apple TV smart home control and FaceTime is being explored but is in early stages.
- tvOS 26 beta features support for powerful hardware enhancing smart home and multimedia experiences but no direct HomePod hardware announcements.
These developments reflect Apple's strategy to strengthen its smart home presence through incremental device upgrades, new display-equipped hubs, and deeper integration with Apple TV and tvOS platforms.
Name Change and Ongoing Rumours
Recently, there's been a change from Apple HomeKit to Apple Home in the Settings app, which could be a sign of a significant change in Apple's smart home strategy. Despite the name change, there are still references to HomeKit on Apple's software and its website. Apple is keeping everything pretty quiet about a potential new HomePod launch.
There have been rumours about an Apple smart display with a screen, but no official product or launch date has been announced. Reports predict that the Apple smart display could launch at the end of 2025, but there has been little news on this for years. Regardless of the name change, there has been little news on significant smart home news and launches from Apple in recent years.
[1] The Verifier [2] MacRumors [3] 9to5Mac [4] Bloomberg [5] TechCrunch
- The upcoming developments in Apple's smart home ecosystem, such as the refreshed HomePod mini and the introduction of a HomePod "Command Center" with a display, indicate a shift towards enhancing home-and-garden technology and lifestyle using smart-home technology.
- In line with broad smart home trends, Apple is anticipated to strengthen its smart home presence by releasing updated HomePod devices, improving integration with Apple TV, and possibly renaming Apple HomeKit to Apple Home, exemplifying the intersection of smart-home, home-and-garden, and technology.
