Apple has officially announced a new product launch event, which is scheduled to take place on October 13. The company is expected to focus on smart home products at the upcoming launch, with a new smart home hub, updated Apple TV 4K and New HomePod mini.
For users in India, the Apple launch is expected to take place around 6:30 PM IST on October 13. Like other Apple events, it is expected to be livestreamed on Apple TV and YouTube.
Apple has not confirmed which products it will launch yet. However, reports about Apple’s new smart home products have been doing the rounds for some time.
The upcoming launch will be a big step for the iPhone-maker in the smart home market.
The most interesting product expected is Apple’s smart home hub. The device is reportedly designed as a mix between an iPad and a HomePod and could feature a square display measuring around six inches.
The smart home hub is expected to be designed for multiple people in a home. It will be used to control smart home devices, make FaceTime calls, watch videos, check news and weather, and keep track of calendar events.
The device is also expected to have deeper integration with Apple’s AI-powered Siri. Voice could be the main way users interact with the device.
Apple may offer two versions, including one designed to be mounted on a wall and another with a speaker base.
The new hub is rumoured also use a camera and presence sensor to identify who is in the room. This will allow it to show a personalised interface with relevant apps and widgets for different members of the family.
Apple is also expected to refresh the HomePod mini. The new version could get new colour options, an N1 chip for better Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and a faster processor designed to support Apple’s AI features.
The Apple TV 4K could also receive a major hardware upgrade. Reports suggest Apple may use an A19 or A19 Pro chip along with more RAM and the N1 networking chip. The Siri Remote could also get an upgrade.
There is also a possibility that Apple may announce a new iPad mini with an OLED display. The updated tablet is expected to get a faster chip and improved water resistance, although it is unclear if it will be part of the October 13 launch.
