Apple Plans Home Hub Smart Display with FaceTime and Security Features

​Apple is preparing to launch a new smart home device called the Home Hub, according to a recent report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The Home Hub could arrive as early as October or as late as early next year. This device will feature a 7-inch display and function as a smart speaker, similar to the HomePod, but with expanded capabilities.

Key Highlights

• Apple plans to launch the Home Hub smart display with a 7-inch screen as early as October.
• Home Hub will feature facial recognition, personalized information, and FaceTime video call support.
• Enhanced Home Hub with a 9-inch display and robotic arm is in development for future release.
• Apple is also working on a new security camera, Apple TV set-top box, and improved HomePod mini.

Home Hub Features and Design

The Home Hub will run on a new operating system based on Apple's tvOS. Its interface will combine elements from tvOS, watchOS, and iOS. Users will see a grid of icons, widgets, and apps, along with customizable clock faces. Apple expects customers to buy multiple units and place them in different rooms.

The Home Hub will be available in both tabletop and wall-mounted versions. It will include built-in cameras and facial recognition technology. This allows the device to identify users and display personalized information. The user interface will adjust the size of elements as people approach or move away from the device.

Communication and Security Capabilities

The Home Hub will support FaceTime video calls and home security monitoring. It will also include an intercom system for households with more than one unit. This enables communication between rooms using multiple Home Hubs.

Apple is developing an enhanced version of the Home Hub for the future. This model will feature a 9-inch display and a robotic arm. The arm will allow the screen to move and capture more people or objects during FaceTime calls.

Additional Apple Home Devices

The report also states that Apple is working on an in-home security camera. This product will compete with Amazon's Ring cameras. In addition, Apple plans to release a new Apple TV set-top box and an improved HomePod mini speaker. Both the Apple TV and HomePod mini could be released this fall.