Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its first smart home hub on October 13. The device will be available in two versions: a wall-mounted model (codenamed J491) and a desktop variant (codenamed J490). Both units feature a 6-inch square display surrounded by 6.35 mm bezels.
The desktop version includes a circular metal base and a metal arm, resembling the design of the iMac G4, while the wall-mounted version features a base housing speakers and microphones. Both models are powered via USB-C and lack internal batteries. Each device is equipped with a 1080p camera for FaceTime and authentication.
The hub runs on a new operating system, potentially called homeOS, which integrates elements from tvOS, watchOS, and iOS. The interface is designed to resemble watchOS and the iPhone StandBy mode. It supports proximity detection, gesture control, and automation triggers, such as turning on lights when a user enters a room.
To support Apple Intelligence, the device is expected to feature an A18 chip or higher, paired with at least 8GB of RAM. It will come pre-installed with core applications like Safari, Apple Music, and FaceTime. Apple does not currently plan to launch a dedicated App Store for this smart home hub.
