Apple's Next Big Move: A Smart Home Display to Rival Amazon's Echo Hub

For several months, rumors have circulated about Apple's potential development of a smart home display. Recently, notable Apple leaker Mark Gurman shared that Apple intends to unveil a wall-mounted display by March of next year.

This device is reportedly capable of controlling smart home gadgets and facilitating video calls, drawing parallels to Amazon's Echo Hub.

The AI-powered wall-mounted display is said to resemble a square-shaped iPad, approximately the size of two iPhones placed side by side, featuring a 6-inch screen with thick bezels available in silver and black.

The front of the device is equipped with a camera for FaceTime, along with an integrated rechargeable battery and speakers.

It's anticipated that the device will support voice control through Siri and Apple's Artificial Intelligence. While it can function independently, an iPhone will be necessary for initial setup.

This wall-mounted display will feature a customizable home screen with widgets for showing weather, upcoming appointments, photo slideshows, and essential home control information.

Apple's venture into this territory hints at a broader strategy to establish a comprehensive smart home ecosystem. Furthermore, renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that Apple is preparing to enter the smart home IP camera market, with mass production expected by 2026.

The camera aims to seamlessly integrate with other Apple hardware via wireless connections, targeting an annual shipping goal in the millions.

Apple has reportedly designed several mounts for this smart display, allowing it to be affixed to walls or set table-top on a stand with additional speakers. This setup operates with a new operating system that appears to be a blend of the Apple Watch's OS and the recently introduced iPhone stand-by mode.

Sensors in the display will gauge the user's distance, adjusting the displayed information accordingly. For instance, when unattended, it may show temperature readings, but switch to thermostat controls when approached.

This display is also said to support Apple's Handoff feature, allowing for continued tasks across various devices. Depending on the components used, the premium model of this wall-mounted device could be priced as high as $1,000.