Apple HomePad with 7-inch display may launch in October

Apple is preparing to launch a new smart home hub, possibly as early as October, according to a report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The device, which has been rumored for years, is said to feature a 7-inch square display and a new operating system based on tvOS.

The operating system will reportedly include grids of icons, widgets, and apps similar to those on iOS and WatchOS. The device is expected to have the revamped Siri AI at its core, along with capabilities for video chat and security.

This launch matters because it would mark Apple's entry into the smart home display market, competing directly with devices like the Google Nest Hub Mini and Amazon's Echo Show. The integration of a new Siri AI could differentiate Apple's offering in a crowded field.

The report, published on July 28, 2026, provides a potential release window but does not confirm an exact date. Details about the device have been sparse, with earlier rumors only hinting at a "HomePod with a screen."

Background on the device includes years of speculation about Apple's plans for a home hub. The new operating system based on tvOS suggests a departure from existing platforms, potentially offering a unique user experience.

Likely next steps involve an official announcement from Apple, though the company has not commented on the report. If the October launch window holds, more details may emerge in the coming months.