Apple’s ‘Welcome home’ event set for October 13 with three new home devices expected
Apple will hold its product event on October 13, combining an in-person press experience in New York City with an online presentation. The expected lineup includes a new Apple TV 4K, an upgraded HomePod mini and the rumored HomePad smart display, although Apple has not confirmed the release timing.
A forecast as of publication. An announcement and on-sale availability require separate confirmation.
Apple will hold its new-product event on October 13 under the “Welcome home” tagline. The program will combine an in-person press experience in New York City with an online video presentation.
Press materials and video are expected around 9 a.m. ET on October 13 (13:00 UTC), based on reports cited in the source. Apple has not confirmed that schedule, so the actual release time may differ.
HomePad expected as the main announcement
The event is expected to center on the HomePad smart display, which Apple reportedly intends to use as a household hub powered by Siri and Apple Intelligence. Bloomberg reports that it will feature a 6-inch square display on a half-dome base with a metal arm.
The reported lineup includes wall-mounted and countertop versions. HomePad may recognize household members by voice or proximity and adjust the screen accordingly. Its software is expected to combine elements of the iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and iPhone, including widgets and StandBy mode.
Apple TV 4K may get a new chip
Apple is also expected to unveil a new Apple TV 4K, the first update to the set-top box since November 2022. The design is reportedly unchanged, while the device may use an A19 or A19 Pro chip to enable Siri and Apple Intelligence features.
Code references point to a possible feature that would let users arrange four full-size HomePods as a surround-sound system with Apple TV. The source does not confirm that Apple will announce this function at the event.
HomePod mini due for its first major refresh
The HomePod mini is expected to receive a chip substantially faster than the current S5 processor, along with Siri support. Apple introduced the S5 with the Apple Watch Series 5. New colors are also reportedly planned for the updated speaker.
Apple is working with LG on HomeKit accessories including a smart lock, thermostat, doorbell and several cameras. Bloomberg says those products will not be released for at least a few more months, although Apple could preview them as part of its broader home strategy.
What we know
- Apple will hold its product event on October 13 with a New York press experience and an online video.
- HomePad may feature a 6-inch display, wall and countertop versions, and household-member recognition.
- The expected Apple TV 4K could use an A19 or A19 Pro chip.
- The HomePod mini may move beyond the S5 processor and gain Siri support.
- Apple and LG’s HomeKit accessories are not expected to launch for at least a few more months.
Trust: Single source
- The story relies on one publisher. A second independent confirmation has not been established from the cited sources.
- Sources: 9to5Mac.
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