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Technology

Apple Teases October 13 Event: HomePad and New Smart Home Devices Expected

hellohimachalse@gmail.com 09 Oct 2026 42 min ago

has started building excitement around its next product launch, scheduled for October 13, with the tagline “Welcome home.” The announcement suggests that the company may be preparing to expand its smart home lineup, potentially introducing a new home hub alongside updated versions of its existing devices.

Apple’s SVP of Marketing, Greg Joswiak, shared a teaser on X featuring two people creating a retro Apple logo through hand embroidery. The words “Welcome home. October 13” appear beneath the logo. The visual has also sparked speculation about Thread, a connectivity standard widely used in smart home products.

However, the gathering may be an Apple “experience” rather than a traditional launch event, similar to the occasion when the company introduced the MacBook Neo earlier this year. Reports suggest that selected media outlets have received invitations. The event is expected to begin at 9 am ET, or 6:30 pm IST, in New York City.

HomePad Could Be the Main Attraction

The biggest expected announcement is Apple’s rumoured smart home hub, reportedly called the “HomePad.” The device could feature a 6-inch display and arrive in two versions: one designed for wall mounting and another paired with a speaker base for tabletops.

According to reports, the HomePad may run a customised version of tvOS, potentially called homeOS, with support for Apple apps and widgets. It is expected to serve as a central control point for connected home devices, calendars and other everyday tasks.

A built-in camera could support video calls and video playback, while presence sensors and voice and facial recognition may help personalise the interface for different family members. The device could reportedly start at $350 (roughly Rs 33,000) in the US.

HomePod mini May Get an Upgrade

Apple is also expected to refresh the HomePod mini without making major changes to its design. The updated speaker could feature a faster processor and the N1 networking chip, bringing support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.

Thread connectivity, additional colour options and new Siri AI features are also among the expected upgrades.

Apple TV 4K and More Products

A new Apple TV 4K could join the lineup, potentially featuring a more powerful chip, additional RAM and the N1 networking chip. Reports have pointed to either an A19 or A19 Pro processor, paired with 8GB or 12GB of memory. Siri AI features could also be part of the update.

Apple may additionally introduce LG-linked smart home accessories, including a video doorbell, thermostat and indoor camera. However, these products may not reach the market for several months.

Beyond the October 13 announcements, Apple could hold another launch event on October 27. Rumours suggest that new Mac computers and an OLED iPad mini may feature in the company’s plans later this month.

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