Apple to unveil 'Welcome Home' smart home products on Oct. 13

Apple has confirmed it will hold a second fall event on October 13, 2026, titled "Welcome home." The event is heavily implied by Apple to focus on smart home products. It will likely be a prerecorded presentation recorded at Apple Park, streamed on YouTube, the Apple TV app, and the Apple Event page, with some press in attendance in New York City.

This marks the second set of releases under the tenure of CEO John Ternus. While Apple’s September 9 "Surprise and Shine" event launched the iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro, and other devices, the October event is expected to address the remaining hardware lineup.

HomeView and Smart Home Hub

Reports indicate Apple will unveil a smart home hub called the "HomeView." An October 11 report identified this name, replacing previous references to a "Home Hub." The device is intended to be the center of a smart home setup, potentially taking the form of half a HomePod with a display attached, or a version that attaches to a wall using a magnetic stand.

The HomeView is described as a smart display for notifications, calendars, and daily details, capable of handling FaceTime calls via a built-in camera. It will not have access to an App Store and will feature limited installed apps. Privacy features may include checking for nearby iPhones or using AI to display information specific to the user. The interface is expected to borrow ideas from the Apple Watch, including a home screen with "faces" and a "face gallery."

Partnerships and Accessories

Recent rumors suggest a partnership with LG. According to reports, this collaboration will result in Apple co-designed but LG-branded devices, including a smart deadbolt lock, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and a floodlight camera. Despite this, Apple is said to still be working on its own range of smart home cameras, which are now expected to launch in 2027.

Apple has also been working with Schneider to produce devices such as smart thermostats and humidity sensors. Mashable notes that MacRumors expects an announcement regarding a partnership with home security company ADT, though specifics remain speculative.

Updated HomePod mini and Apple TV

The HomePod mini is widely expected to receive a refresh. Apple’s own code referenced new colors, with Yellow and Orange being replaced by Powder Pink and Forest Green, while retaining Blue, Black, and White. The update is expected to include new chips, specifically the S10, to support Siri AI. Code leaks have also referenced a new surround sound mode in a four-speaker setup and a "Party Mode."

The Apple TV 4K is also expected to be updated, primarily to introduce support for Siri AI. Expectations include an upgrade to the A19 or A19 Pro chip, increased memory to 8GB or 12GB, and the inclusion of Apple’s N1 networking chip. A new Siri Remote may also be introduced. One late rumor on October 11 claimed the Apple TV 4K could gain a microphone to allow users to talk to Siri without a HomePod or the remote.

Why it matters

Apple has faced challenges in the smart home market since releasing HomeKit software in 2014. Rivals like Google and Amazon have strengthened their positions through acquisitions of Nest Labs and Ring, respectively. The "Welcome home" event represents a significant push by Apple to establish a more cohesive ecosystem, anchored by the HomeView and supported by third-party partnerships, aiming to correct previous struggles in the sector.

---

Sources

• appleinsider.com: What to expect from Apple's October 13 'Welcome home' releases
• mashable.com: Apple returns to smart home ecosystem with upcoming 'Welcome Home' event | Mashable

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.