We Now Know When Apple Will Hold Its Next Major Tech Event.
Last month’s Apple event was a major one . The company announced (and subsequently released) the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, and Apple Watch Ultra 4. The iPhone Duo was also announced, though the company’s first foldable phone has yet to be released. Despite all these new products, it seems Apple isn’t stopping there. Next week, the company will hold another product launch, titled “Welcome Home.” Here’s what we know so far.
What is Apple announcing at the Welcome Home event?
Apple’s hints about new products are usually quite subtle. But this time, it’s different. The “Welcome Home” tagline almost certainly refers to the long-discussed smart home devices. While the company does release some smart devices, like the HomePod and HomePod mini, leaks indicate it has several major updates in store.
Perhaps the biggest announcement will be the smart home control center . Rumors suggest this device will be a cross between an iPad and a HomePod, competing with similar devices from companies like Amazon and Google. It will likely feature a six-inch display (some sources suggest a square screen), but it won’t be an iPad on a stand. Instead, the user interface will likely be more focused, allowing you to control smart home devices, make and receive FaceTime calls, watch videos, display news and water usage data, and check your calendar. Of course, it will likely work with Siri AI, the company’s new AI-powered voice assistant.
Apple may even be hoping that users will purchase more than one of these hubs. The idea is to have multiple hubs throughout the home, allowing them to act as intercoms. (Apple currently offers a similar feature with its HomePods.) Rumors suggest the smart hub will understand the voice of the person speaking to it and tailor the experience to the individual user. If you have guests, you can switch to “visitor mode” to avoid revealing sensitive information.
While the smart home control center may steal the spotlight, Apple also plans to update some existing devices . The HomePod mini may come in new colors and is expected to feature an N1 chip for improved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as an upgraded S-series chip for Siri AI. Apple may also update the Apple TV 4K with an A19 or A19 Pro chip, along with the new N1 chip and a new Siri remote. Apple may use this opportunity to unveil its new OLED iPad mini, but the company may focus more specifically on the smart home.
When is Apple’s Welcome Home event?
According to Apple, the “Welcome Home” event will begin on Tuesday, October 13, at 9:00 AM ET (6:00 AM PT). This is a relatively early start time, considering the company is headquartered in California, although it appears Apple will be holding the event in New York City this time . By comparison, Apple events typically begin at 1:00 PM ET (10:00 AM PT) when the company holds them in Cupertino. It’s unclear whether the event will be livestreamed or only available to invited media.