Modern kitchen with apple homepad screen showing recipe, robotic arm preparing ingredients.

Apple’s HomePad with Interactive Screen and Robotic Arm Set to Debut on October 13

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-10-09

Welcome Home: Apple’s New Smart Hub

Apple’s upcoming event titled “Welcome home” will feature significant updates to its smart home lineup, including the much-anticipated apple homepad screen. A major highlight is a revamped HomePod, now equipped with a screen. As reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this new version, unofficially named the HomePad, aims to serve as a central hub for smart home integration. Alongside, updates to the Apple TV 4K and the HomePod mini 2 are expected.

The HomePod, known for its sound quality, is now set to undergo a transformation. This includes the innovative display feature. Gurman describes the device with a 6-inch square screen mounted on a metal arm, atop a perforated speaker base. This design is reminiscent of Apple’s iconic 2002 iMac G4. Two models are reportedly in the works: a tabletop version codenamed J490 and a wall-mounted variant, J491, both requiring an outlet. Each is crafted to deliver personalized experiences by recognizing speakers and adapting displays accordingly.

The HomePod, known for its sound quality, is now set to undergo a transformation. Apple Watch Overhaul: New Designs explores similar themes of design innovation and updated functionalities.

Close-up of a sleek apple homepad screen displaying a colorful weather widget.

Apple HomePad Screen Features

Apple is also rumored to be working on a larger version, boasting a 9-inch display with a robotic arm, enhancing accessibility and functionality. This aligns with apple technology plans, which incorporate innovative designs such as a magnetic mount and robotic arm. The smart display in these devices plays a crucial role in enriching user interaction through the smart home hub concept.

Additional updates involve the Apple TV 4K, which might include either an A19 or A19 Pro chip along with the N1 wireless chip, supporting Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Enhancements allow smoother connectivity with up to four HomePods for a robust home cinema experience. Siri AI integration will be exclusive to the new models, enriching user interaction with the updated interface.

Robotic arm holding a coffee cup next to an apple homepad screen in a kitchen.
Side view of apple homepad screen with robotic arm manipulating a kitchen tool.

New Accessories and Collaborations

LG collaborations reportedly add a variety of smart home accessories like locks, thermostats, cameras, and sensors. These devices are anticipated to feature LG branding while integrating seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem. Meanwhile, a Schneider-developed thermostat and sensor add further depth to Apple’s smart home strategy, potentially expanding HomeKit’s utility.

While details about pricing remain unconfirmed, the anticipated cost of the HomePad could mirror the original HomePod’s launch price in 2017. Apple’s meticulous improvements, centered on the new screen, seem poised to redefine home interaction through smart technology.

Apple homepad screen on a countertop displaying a digital clock under soft lighting.

Anticipating the Event

With these developments, Apple continues to innovate within the smart home market, drawing on its extensive history while introducing future-facing technology. October 13 promises to be a pivotal day for Apple enthusiasts and smart home aficionados alike, as Apple showcases its most connected and visually advanced HomePod to date with the interactive display. Watch for detailed announcements at the event, where the focus will squarely be on home technology transformations.

October 13 promises to be a pivotal day for Apple enthusiasts and smart home aficionados alike. Nokia Reimagines Classic Brick Phones demonstrates how legacy designs can integrate with modern technology.

Modern kitchen with apple homepad screen showing recipe, robotic arm preparing ingredients.

Source: yankodesign.com

Frequently asked questions

What will be featured at the ‘Welcome home’ event?

Apple’s ‘Welcome home’ event will feature significant updates to its smart home lineup, including the new HomePad with a screen and updates to the Apple TV 4K and the HomePod mini 2.

What is the design of the new HomePod like?

The new HomePod features a 6-inch square screen mounted on a metal arm, atop a perforated speaker base, reminiscent of Apple’s iconic 2002 iMac G4 design. There are two models, a tabletop version codenamed J490 and a wall-mounted variant J491, both requiring an outlet.

What are the Apple HomePad screen features?

The Apple HomePad is rumored to have a larger version with a 9-inch display and a robotic arm, enhancing accessibility and functionality. The smart display in these devices plays a crucial role in enriching user interaction through the smart home hub concept.