Apple is getting ready to expand its ecosystem with a new smart display. While many have referred to it as the Apple HomePad in earlier rumors, recent reports point to the name Apple HomeView. This new hub aims to bring voice control, smart home management, and media into one dedicated screen. Before the official announcement drops, here is a look at what to expect from the highly anticipated device.
The device brings a floating display and an A18 chip
Reports indicate two physical versions of the smart display are coming. The first model features a speaker base and a design that floats the screen above it, looking a lot like a miniature iMac G4. The second option is a wall-mounted version with a flat, square base. Both models are expected to feature a 6-inch screen.
Under the hood, the hub relies on an A18 processor. This chip gives it enough power to run on-device AI tools and handle face recognition through a front camera, which lets it switch profiles based on who is looking at the screen.
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For finishes, the speaker model will likely be powered by the A18 chip and offered in four colors. Buyers can choose from space gray, silver, starlight, and pink. The wall-mounted version keeps things simple, sticking only to space gray and silver.
Customers will wait until November to buy the new hub
Apple plans to reveal the smart home display on October 13 during its “Welcome home” event. However, the hardware will not be available to purchase on day one. Buyers should expect shipments to begin in mid-November.
The company is also preparing other home announcements for the same October event. A refreshed HomePod mini with the S10 chip and a new Apple TV 4K are expected to ship a bit earlier, around October 30.
Shell companies point to the new HomeView and homeOS names
The name of the device was hidden for months. In September 2024, a shell company named Home Services LLC filed a trademark application for the name HomeView. This entity has a history of staying out of the public eye.
Similarly, another quiet entity called Home Operations Suite LLC applied for the homeOS trademark in 2025. Tracking these trademark filings helped reporters connect the dots. It appears Apple might be behind the trademark application to keep its upcoming product names under wraps until launch day.
The hub uses widgets instead of a dedicated app store
Anyone hoping for a general kitchen tablet might need to lower their expectations. The display runs on the new homeOS, which heavily prioritizes voice control over a traditional touch interface.
Current reports suggest the hub will not have an App Store. You will not be able to download and install native third-party apps directly to the device. Instead, the system handles outside applications by letting you project widgets from a nearby iPhone.
Rather than competing with the iPad, the new hub serves a different purpose. It acts as a dedicated control station for your living room or kitchen. By combining voice commands, smart home accessory management, and a simple screen, the company wants to create a central hub that stays out of the way until you need it. We will know the full details once the official presentation wraps up.
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