NEW YORK — Apple will introduce new smart home products on Tuesday, October 13, in a launch it has billed “Welcome home.” The company confirmed the date on Thursday, and Bloomberg reported that the devices are meant to revive Apple’s presence in the smart home under John Ternus, who became chief executive last month.
The launch starts at 9 a.m. Eastern, Gizmodo reported. Apple marketing chief Greg Joswiak announced it. It will not be a traditional keynote. Apple has invited some members of the press to hands-on sessions in New York, and everyone else is expected to learn about the devices through press releases on the day.
Apple has not said what it will show. Reports point to three products: a smart home hub with a display, a refreshed HomePod mini and a new Apple TV 4K, all expected to support the new Siri AI. The hub, widely nicknamed “HomePad,” is described as a cross between an iPad and a HomePod. It is reportedly meant to be shared by several people for controlling smart home products, FaceTime calls, video, news and weather, and calendar events.
Reports differ on details. One account gives the hub a 6-inch square display in two versions, a countertop model and a wall-mounted one. Another puts the screen at 7 inches. Gizmodo notes that Apple may also announce devices co-developed with LG, including a doorbell, cameras, a smart lock and a thermostat.
The launch follows last month’s iPhone 18 Pro, AirPods 5 and Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. Pricing, names and availability will stay unconfirmed until Tuesday.
