Apple may release an iPad-like clever home display next year

Apple is gearing up for a novel iteration of its clever home that’s starting with rumors of a clever display that could be released next year. This according to BloombergMark Gurman who I’m writing in his Enable announced the bulletin today that the display will apply a novel operating system called homeOS, based on Apple TV’s tvOS (similar to the software that currently powers HomePods).

Gurman reports that the display will run Apple apps such as Calendar, Notes, and Home, and that Apple has tested prototypes with wall-mounting magnets. It will also support Apple Intelligence – something Apple HomePods don’t currently support.

Another recent rumor suggested that the soon-to-be-available “HomeAccessory” device would be square-shaped and that users would be able to control it using gestures from afar because 9 to 5Mac he wrote earlier this week. AND MacGossip reported perceptible code references to the device AND HomeOS.

Such a display sounds more down to earth than Apple’s idea for a robotic screen. It could also be less hassle and hopefully cheaper than trying to apply the iPad as a dedicated clever home controller (I’ve tried; it’s not a great experience!). We’ll find out if and when it launches – which doesn’t sound terribly far off.