Apple is rumored to be working on a new HomePod with a display and a new OS, which could be called homeOS. There are many concepts about what this device might look like. Here’s a breakdown of the rumors:
Display
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests a 7-inch LCD, similar to the Amazon Echo Show. This device would likely excel at video calls, smart home control, and Siri interaction—references to tvOS testing on the iPad mini hint at a similar screen size for the HomePod.
Leaks say that the device will use a variation of the A18 chip found in the upcoming iPhone 16 models and, hence, might have Apple Intelligence. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said a magnetically mounted “iPad-like smart display,” hinting at a budget-friendly tablet that wouldn’t run iPadOS. This reminds me of the Google Pixel tablet with its dock.
Operating System
Rumors of a new operating system called homeOS have been circulating since 2021, but recent references in tvOS 17.4 suggest that “homeOS” branding might be coming out sooner rather than later. It’s unclear if homeOS will be entirely new or a rebranded tvOS.
New HomePod products with screens will likely incorporate this branding. 9to5Mac discovered a new touch interface called “PlasterBoard” within tvOS 18 beta 3, which could be a sign of a proper lock screen for a more personal device like the rumored HomePod with the display.
The exact form of the HomePod with display remains unclear. However, one thing is certain: Apple’s commitment to smart home products is evident, and new developments are expected within the next year.