Apple is preparing a HomePod with screen to compete with Google’s Nest Hub

According to the latest information revealed by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg in his “Power On” newsletter, Apple is preparing to make a strong return to the smart home market.

According to Mark Gurman, the Cupertino giant is working on two versions of a HomePod equipped with a screen, one of which could see the light of day next year. The first model, codenamed J490, would be positioned at the entry level. It would be equipped witha square screen, a camera for FaceTime calls and could even recognize user gestures. Under the hood, we will findt an A18 chip to manage Apple’s in-house artificial intelligencecalled “Apple Intelligence”.

The second, more high-end model (code name J595), would be distinguished by a larger screen and a robotic arm. Its price would exceed $1000, clearly positioning it in the premium segment.

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These two devices would run under a new operating system called homeOS. Although this name seems brand new to the Apple ecosystem, Gurman specifies that it would actually be an adapted version of tvOS, the Apple TV operating system. Ultimately, these two platforms could even merge.

The HomePod interface with screen would be optimized for controlling connected devices and quickly displaying information. The home screen would favor widgets rather than traditional app icons. Applications like Calendar, Notes and Home would also be preinstalled.

These new products would mark the arrival of Apple Intelligence in the brand’s domestic ecosystem, since Apple’s AI is currently only available in its mobile devices. Currently, no device in Apple’s connected home range, not even the HomePod at 349 euros does not support this technology.

To carry out this ambitious project, the hardware engineering team dedicated to home devices would collaborate closely with the teams specializing in artificial intelligence. If these rumors are confirmed, Apple could well shake up the smart home market. These new HomePods with screen would offer an interesting alternative to existing solutions, such as using an iPad as a hub for home automation.

It remains to be seen when exactly these devices will appear on the market, Apple could still delay its plans. If the entry-level model seems imminent, the high-end HomePod with robotic arm could take a little longer.