\n<\/p>\n
While WWDC 2026 brought a large number of Apple Home software updates, many users are left asking the same question: where is the new hardware? A new report from Mark Gurman suggests that Apple is gearing up for a major refresh of its home product lineup, with updated versions of the Apple TV, HomePod mini, and the long-rumored Home Hub expected to arrive in mid-2026. However, one of Apple’s smart home projects may still last several years.<\/p>\n
According to the latest information from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple plans to launch updated versions of both the Apple TV and HomePod mini sometime in 2026.<\/p>\n
Although details remain limited, the next-generation Apple TV is expected to support Apple Intelligence features in some way. Previous rumors have suggested that this device could have a more powerful processor, Apple’s network technology, and a redesigned Siri Remote.<\/p>\n
The HomePod mini is also expected to receive an update, although the biggest change may be support for Apple’s new Siri features and Apple Intelligence features. Whether Apple is introducing a significant audio or hardware upgrade remains unclear, but it’s likely they will since the hardware is now 6 years old. We should also expect to see new colors.<\/p>\n
For Apple Home users, these products are undoubtedly overdue for a review. The current HomePod mini launches in 2020, while the Apple TV 4K gets its last hardware update in 2022.<\/p>\n
The report also suggests that the Apple Home Hub will still be launched in 2026.<\/p>\n
The device is expected to act as a dedicated smart home controller, with a 6 or 7-inch display designed around Apple Home, Siri, widgets, cameras, and home controls. Instead of being a fixed product, Apple is reportedly taking a modular approach, allowing the display to be paired with different mounting options including wall mounts, and desk stands.<\/p>\n
Given Apple’s significant investments shown at WWDC around Apple Intelligence, HomeKit Secure Video, smart notifications, camera search, and Siri improvements, a dedicated home display now feels more important than ever.<\/p>\n
Another device that seems far away is Apple’s smart display. Rumors have been circulating for a long time about an advanced Home Hub with a robotic arm that can move the body and track users around the room. According to Gurman, this product is unlikely to arrive before 2027 or even 2028.<\/p>\n
If these timelines prove to be accurate, 2026 could finally be the year Apple gives its home hardware the attention many users have been waiting for.<\/p>\n
WWDC 2026 made it clear that Apple’s vision for the smart home is increasingly focused on Apple Intelligence. Features like smart notifications, natural language camera search, advanced video analysis, and a more capable Siri all point to a future where Apple’s home ecosystem becomes more powerful and context-aware.<\/p>\n
A missing piece of hardware.<\/p>\n
The new Apple TV, updated HomePod mini, and dedicated Home Hub could provide a practical basis for that idea. The robot display may still be years away, but for Apple Home users, 2026 is shaping up to be the most important year for Apple’s smart home aspirations in a long time.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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