After years of rumors, Apple seems ready to release its first smart home display. New reports indicate a device with a robotic screen—possibly called the “HomePad”—could arrive as early as this spring to take on Amazon and Google.
The launch appears to be back on track after delays, with the company reportedly finalizing the software needed to run the new hardware.
A Screen That Follows You
The big difference with this device is movement. Unlike a normal speaker that sits still, this new gadget reportedly features a robotic base.
This allows the screen to swivel and rotate to face you as you move around the room. The idea is to make video calls on FaceTime more natural and keep information like timers or recipes in view, similar to how Amazon’s high-end Echo Show 10 operates.
Waiting for Smarter AI
The device was originally expected last year, but Apple reportedly held it back because the software wasn’t ready. The company wanted to ensure its new “Apple Intelligence” features and a smarter Siri were polished before shipping the product.
Now that Apple has strengthened its AI tools—and reportedly struck a deal to use Google’s Gemini technology—the “HomePad” is finally cleared for takeoff. It is expected to serve as a central hub for the smart home, relying heavily on voice commands.
Why It Matters
Apple is late to this game. Amazon and Google have sold smart displays for years, dominating the space on kitchen counters and nightstands.
By launching a high-end device that moves, Apple is trying to skip the budget market entirely. It gives iPhone users a premium, dedicated screen for home control that feels more advanced than the static plastic speakers currently available.
What Comes Next
If the latest timeline holds, we could see an official announcement around March. The success of the device will likely depend on whether the robotic movement offers real utility or just feels like a flashy gimmick.
