Apple is rumored to launch an AI-powered home device that combines HomePod and Apple TV

In short: It looks like the long-standing rumors that Apple is working on a new device that essentially combines the HomePod and Apple TV are true. Code has been discovered that suggests the product is in development and could support Apple Intelligence.

Discovered by MacRumors, the reference code on Apple’s backend uses the identifier “HomeAccessory17,1” — a new identifier that resembles the HomePod’s “AudioAccessory” name.

The device itself is expected to feature a speaker and LCD screen, which are intended to compete with Amazon’s Echo Show smart displays and Google’s Nest series.

The “17.1” part of the identifier’s name could indicate that the new device will get Apple’s upcoming A18 chip, which will power all four iPhone 16 models released this year. Using Apple’s latest chip would mean that the smart display will be able to support Apple Intelligence.

The device is expected to run a version of tvOS. It could run the rumored homeOS, a combination of tvOS and HomePod software.

The code also refers to two unreleased Apple TV models: AppleTV14.4 and AppleTV14.5. Rumors have it that the improved Apple TV could hit the market in 2024.

The smart device will likely give users control over HomeKit, acting as the hub of a smart home – similar to Google Nest.

The inclusion of Apple Intelligence is interesting. Apple announced at WWDC that Apple Intelligence features will be coming to iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia this fall. OpenAI’s GPT-4o LLM will handle some AI tasks, including the option to use ChatGPT to help Siri answer user queries — much to Elon Musk’s annoyance. The new smart device could also ask users if they want to consult ChatGPT to answer a question.

In May, reports emerged that Amazon was considering introducing a paid version of the Alexa app this year that would feature the latest generative AI technology.

Assuming Apple really does launch a new smart device, we can expect its presentation in September, when new iPhones, Apple Watches, iPads and other devices will likely be presented in Cupertino.

Header: Jaime Marrero