Apple has been the subject of ongoing rumors about a revolutionary smart home device featuring a robotic arm that can move around a user’s desk. While this innovative tabletop gadget has captured attention, it appears that Apple may first release a more affordable, scaled-down version of the device before unveiling the high-end model. According to a reliable industry insider, this lower-end smart home hub is expected to launch by the end of the year and will include a tablet-like display, a built-in camera, and integration with Apple Intelligence, along with a new operating system designed specifically for smart home control.
Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman shared insights into Apple’s ambitious plans, revealing that the original high-end smart home hub, codenamed J595, is envisioned as an AI-centric device featuring a screen size comparable to an iPad and a robotic arm capable of moving around a desk. Apple reportedly intends to give the device a “unique AI personality,” making it a more interactive and intelligent companion. However, delays have pushed back the release of this flagship device, impacting Apple’s original timeline.
Despite these setbacks, Apple’s commitment to the smart home market remains strong. Gurman reports that a more modest version of the device, with the codename J490, is now slated for release by year-end. This model will have a 7-inch square-shaped screen, resembling a compact iPad, and will include a camera, internal speakers, and a built-in battery for flexible placement. Designed as an AI-powered wall tablet, it will allow users to interact through a touch interface that blends elements from watchOS and the iPhone’s Standby mode, creating a user-friendly and seamless experience.
The introduction of this smart home hub will also mark the debut of Apple’s new operating system, homeOS, dedicated to managing smart home devices more intuitively. By combining hardware innovation with AI-powered software, Apple aims to strengthen its foothold in the growing smart home market. This launch could serve as a precursor to more advanced devices in the future, setting the stage for a new era of intelligent home automation under Apple’s ecosystem.
