Bloomberg journalist and insider Mark Gurman has confirmed rumors that Apple is still planning to announce a new HomePod-like device in 2025. The novelty will be a hub for Apple's smart home.
According to Gurman, it will be "Apple's most important release of the year". In his report, he noted that the device will be similar to a "smaller and cheaper iPad," which will allow users to "control household appliances." The new device will have a 7-inch display and run on the homeOS operating system. It will have a home screen with various widgets.
The hub will be based on Siri, Apple Intelligence, and HomeKit. The device will also be able to function as a home security system, showing video from surveillance cameras, and the built-in camera will provide the ability to make video calls via FaceTime.
By the way, the new HomePod will compete with products such as Google Nest Hub and Amazon Echo Show.