Apple’s HomePad reportedly set for October 13 reveal

Apple reportedly plans to reveal its long-rumored smart home hub, known as HomePad, on October 13. The Verge’s Tom Warren reports that Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says the device will appear alongside a new HomePod mini and an upgraded Apple TV. All three products are expected to showcase Siri AI, Apple’s overhauled AI-powered assistant.

The hub would mark a new product category for Apple. It is reportedly designed with a 6-inch display that can be mounted on a wall or placed on a countertop. According to Gurman, it is about as thick as an iPhone and has bezels similar to older iPads. Its round metal base would house speakers and microphones, while a metal arm holds the screen and lets it tilt. Apple is also reportedly planning a wall-mounted version with a thinner base for the speakers and microphones.

The device reportedly has no battery and uses a USB-C power supply. Gurman says it will come in Apple’s standard gray aluminum finish. Its Siri AI-based operating system is expected to use iPad-like apps, including a Messages app with a two-panel layout. Reported features also include smart device controls, video calls, music playback, photo slideshows, and intercom-style calls.