Apple could unveil a display-based smart-home hub on October 13, 2026, according to reporting by MacRumors citing Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Apple has not confirmed the event, date, product or name, so October 13 is the latest reported expectation—not a launch date to rely on.
What is Apple’s rumored smart-home hub?
Reports describe a compact, square touchscreen device intended to act as a visual control point for the home alongside a HomePod-like speaker. The press has used “HomePad” as shorthand, but Apple has not confirmed that as the product’s name. MacRumors’ September 30 report describes an approximately 6-inch screen and a tabletop design inspired by the iMac G4; earlier reporting placed the screen in the 6-to-7-inch range. These are reported details, not Apple specifications.
Two installation styles have been reported: a tabletop version with a speaker base and a wall-mounted version. The reporting does not establish other differences between them.
What might it do?
Reported uses include controlling smart-home accessories, video calls, intercom communication, music and video playback, and Apple apps such as Calendar, Notes and Reminders. A camera may recognize household members and personalize the information displayed. These features remain unconfirmed.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →#1 Best Overall
- 【Easy Setup, One Control】With Matter, Skip the step of downloading and registering multiple manufacturers' apps every time you buy a new device. Instead, head straight to certified smart home platforms like Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, or AiDot to control all your Matter devices.【TIP】Matter-certified hub or controller (HomePod, Echo Dot, Nest, SmartThings Hub) is required for Apple Home/Alexa/Google Home/SmartThings platforms. Alternatively, the AiDot app can be used without hub
- 【Offline-Ready Control】Once you've set up your Matter-certified devices on your LAN, they'll be able to communicate with each other directly, using the Matter protocol. This means that if your home internet connection goes offline, your Matter-certified devices will still be able to communicate and be controlled within your LAN, without relying on the internet or cloud services.
- 【Remote Control from Anywhere】Use the app to turn electronics on before you arrive home and off after you leave, no matter where you are. Using the smart plug that work with alexa manage your power usage and save money.
- 【Hands-free Voice Control】Control linkind homekit plug using simple voice commands through Apple HomeKit, Siri, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings, without the need for physical input such as buttons or switches.
- 【Flexible Scheduling & Timer】Effortlessly reduce energy usage with automatic device shutdown after a set time. For example Chrismas Tree, TV, Lamp, Fan, Humidifier,Blenders, Lightbulbs
The rumored software is described as a new home operating system that draws visual elements from iOS, tvOS and watchOS, with Siri AI at its center. Reports also describe a persistent home screen with widgets and clock designs. Apple has not announced the software or confirmed how Siri would work on the device. MacRumors’ September 21 report and 9to5Mac’s coverage outline these reported features.
Will it work with HomeKit or Matter?
That has not been established for the rumored display. Apple has not confirmed its accessory compatibility, whether it supports Matter or Thread, or whether it can replace any existing home hub. Do not assume compatibility based on the “HomePad” nickname or its expected Home controls.
Rank #2
- MEET ECHO SHOW 15 - A stunning 15.6" Full-HD (1080p) smart display that's perfect for your kitchen and ready to show you more. Use customizable widgets to keep your day on track, watch your favorite shows with Fire TV and powerful vibrant sound, and enjoy natural video calling, with 3.3x zoom and wide field of view.
- FAMILY ORGANIZATION HUB - See your top widgets at a glance, like your family’s calendars and to-do lists, local weather, smart home, and more.
- ALL YOUR FAVORITES, ALL RIGHT HERE - Built-in Fire TV unlocks endless entertainment, so you can enjoy your favorite content from thousands of apps like Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV, and more (subscription may be required). Fire TV remote included. Plus, now you can quickly add a device to play music with Active Media - start playing a song in the kitchen, then add the living room and bedroom on the fly.
- SMART HOME CENTRAL - Control smart devices with your voice or a few taps using the smart home dashboard. Easily turn on all your living room lights at once or check live camera feeds to see what's happening around your home.
- YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES ON DISPLAY - Brighten your space (and your day) by turning your home screen into a photo slideshow that displays your favorite memories. Auto curate your images and show off your favorite family memories.
Apple currently documents HomePod, HomePod mini and Apple TV as devices that can serve as a home hub. A home hub lets users control accessories away from home, share accessory control and run automations. Apple also says a home hub is required to add Matter accessories to the Home app. Thread-enabled Matter accessories require a Thread-enabled hub or a supported third-party border router. See Apple’s home hub and Matter instructions for the current requirements.
Should you wait, or set up an Apple Home now?
If you need remote control, shared access or automations now, Apple already supports HomePod, HomePod mini and Apple TV as home hubs. If your interest is specifically a screen-based control point, waiting for Apple to confirm the rumored device may make sense—but its price, compatibility and availability are not yet established, so there is no reliable comparison with current options.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Echo Hub — An easy-to-use smart home control panel redesigned for your home. Arrange controls on your dashboard to quickly adjust devices, view cameras, start routines, and more.
- Customize your dashboard — Arrange devices into sections and resize them to focus on what matters most. Create a personalized layout that matches how your family uses their connected devices.
- Reimagined for your home - With an Alexa+ and compatible Ring subscription (sold separately), get Ring camera event summaries to stay in the know. Search your Ring footage using simple voice commands. Create routines by voice, activate modes to manage multiple devices at once, and chat with Alexa to easily control your smart home.
- Home security for the whole family — Use Echo Hub to easily arm and disarm your compatible security system, making it easy for everyone in your family to manage home security. Use the Alexa app and compatible cameras, locks, alarms, and sensors to check in while you're out.
- Works with thousands of Alexa compatible devices — WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Matter, Sidewalk, and Thread devices sync seamlessly with the built-in smart home hub.
For accessories, Apple’s compatible accessory directory advises looking for “works with Apple Home,” HomeKit or Matter. It lists products such as smart plugs from Eve and Meross. An Apple Home-compatible smart plug is an optional way to start building a compatible setup; it is not a required purchase for the rumored display. Check the exact model and regional compatibility before buying.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How this rumor fits Apple’s reported product plans
The September 30 coverage groups the compact home hub with a new HomePod mini and Apple TV, also expected to feature Siri AI. A full-sized HomePod update is reported as planned for a later date rather than this group. Reports also mention separate projects—a privacy-focused security camera and sensor, and a higher-end hub concept with a larger display on a swiveling robotic arm. Those projects should not be confused with the compact hub expected in the October reports. See MacRumors’ report on the product group and 9to5Mac’s coverage of the full-sized HomePod timing.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The M3 is a versatile hub supporting Aqara Zigbee and Thread devices. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. Supports advanced Matter bridge functionality, enabling Aqara-exclusive scenes and signals to sync with Matter ecosystems such as Home Assistant for seamless integration. Supports up to 127 Aqara Zigbee devices （** Not third-party Zigbee devices) and 127 Thread devices (Repeaters are needed).
- [Edge Compatibilities and Local Automations] The M3 serves as an Edge Hub, prioritizing local control and automation. Upon integration, it supersedes existing Aqara hubs, shifting the automations among them to local operation (Some cloud-based notifications still require internet). Upgrade-friendly, it supports migrating Zigbee devices from older Aqara hubs.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Optimal Wired and Wireless Connectivity] Offering both wired and wireless solutions, the smart home hub M3 provides dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) with advanced WPA3 security, and a Power over Ethernet (PoE) port. The addition of a USB-C port allows for mini-UPS and power bank connections, delivering unparalleled stability. (2A USB power adapter is not included. ) . Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M3 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
- [Privacy-Focused with Encrypted Storage, Easy Setup and Versatile Placement] The M3 prioritizes privacy by excluding microphone or camera components. It boasts 8GB end-to-end encrypted local storage, for device lists, configuration parameters, and automation configuration data. Additionally, it includes a mount and screws for flexible placement on flat surfaces, walls, or ceilings. Magic Pair technology ensures effortless detection by the Aqara Home app upon power-up.
What is confirmed—and what is not
- Reported: October 13, 2026 is the latest reported introduction date. Bloomberg’s wording, reproduced by 9to5Mac, says Apple “plans to make its long-delayed push into the smart-home market on Oct. 13”; that is reporting, not an Apple announcement.
- Reported: The compact display may come in tabletop and wall-mounted forms, with Siri AI and home-control features.
- Not confirmed: The product name, final design and specifications, price, launch date, purchase availability and compatibility details.
- Confirmed by Apple: Its existing HomePod, HomePod mini and Apple TV home-hub support and the stated requirements for Matter and Thread accessories.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
