In the recent fourth beta release of iOS 26, a notable reference to a HomePod with a display has been discovered, leading to speculation about a potential upcoming product. The specific wording of a location-related setting states, “Your HomePod won’t be able to show you the local weather, time, or respond to Siri requests about your area.”
The use of the word “show” is particularly intriguing, as the current HomePod lacks a screen for displaying information like weather or time. Over the past few years, there have been numerous rumors regarding a HomePod equipped with a display.
This new device could serve as Apple’s home hub currently under development. Allegedly, this hub would sport an iPad-like screen in a square format rather than the traditional rectangle.
It aims to manage all HomeKit and Matter devices, and will likely support various Apple applications such as Weather, Calendar, and more. Siri integration is also expected, allowing the device to respond to queries similarly to a standard HomePod.
However, the project has faced delays reportedly due to challenges with developing the updated version of Siri known as Apple Intelligence. While the specific timeline for the home hub’s release remains unconfirmed, it could appear later this year or at the beginning of next year.
Meanwhile, Apple continues to generate buzz in other areas as well. With the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models on the horizon and changes in Apple’s subscription services, there is much to anticipate from the tech giant in the near future.
From the latest advancements in iOS to rumors about new device capabilities, Apple seems poised for an exciting period ahead.
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