Apple could release an iPad-like smart home display next year

Apple is preparing for a new push into the smart home space, starting with a rumored smart display that could launch next year. This is according to Bloombergis Mark Gurman, writing in his Turn on newsletter today that the display will use a new operating system called homeOS, based on Apple TV's tvOS (similar to the software that now controls HomePods).

Gurman reports that the display can run Apple apps like Calendar, Notes, and Home, and that Apple has tested prototypes with wall-mount magnets. And it will support Apple Intelligence – something Apple's HomePods can't currently do.

Another recent rumor suggested that an upcoming “HomeAccessory” device would have a square shape and that users might be able to control it remotely using hand gestures, such as: 9to5Mac wrote earlier this week. And MacRumors has reported obvious code references to the device and homeOS.

A display like this sounds more down-to-earth than Apple's robot screen idea. It might also be less cumbersome and hopefully more cost-effective than trying to use an iPad as a dedicated smart home controller (I tried it; it's not a great experience!). We'll find out if and when it hits the market – what it doesn't sounds awfully far away.