quickutilities – Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its long-anticipated smart home hub as early as the end of this year. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company aims to introduce a basic version first, with a more advanced model arriving later. The smart home hub has been in development since 2022, but technical challenges have delayed its release. Early reports suggested the product would rely heavily on Apple’s artificial intelligence. Particularly an upgraded Siri, which contributed to the postponement.
Early Development Faced Delays Due to Siri Upgrades
The smart home hub was initially expected to launch sooner, but Apple encountered obstacles with improving Siri’s functionality. These difficulties slowed the project’s progress and pushed back the announcement timeline. Gurman reported earlier this year that Apple needed more time to perfect the AI features that would drive the hub’s smart capabilities. The delay allowed the company to refine the user experience, aiming for smoother integration within Apple’s ecosystem.
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Lower-End Model Expected First, Advanced Version to Follow
Apple plans to release a more affordable and basic version of the smart home hub initially. Gurman noted this entry-level model will arrive by the end of the year at the earliest. Meanwhile, a premium version featuring advanced robotics is in development and expected to launch one or two years later. This high-end model will reportedly include a robotic arm that can move the device across a desk, offering a unique interactive experience.
Robotic Arm Model Will Forego Some Features to Meet Deadlines
To meet the launch timeline for the robotic arm variant. Apple reportedly plans to drop some of its bolder, more experimental features. These capabilities may be reserved for future iterations of the product. The company is prioritizing a timely release, focusing on delivering a polished device rather than a fully loaded one. Gurman emphasized that the robotic arm model remains a major priority, indicating Apple’s commitment to innovation in smart home technology.
Design and Pricing Details Hint at a Premium Experience
Rumors suggest Apple’s smart home hub will feature a design blending elements of the HomePod and iPad, including a seven-inch display. The device will run on a new operating system called homeOS. Which is expected to provide a customized dashboard similar to the iPhone’s StandBy mode. Apple will enter a competitive market dominated by Amazon’s Echo and Google’s Nest Hub. The robotic arm version could start at around $1,000, positioning it as a premium product aimed at users seeking advanced smart home control.
