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Apple’s long-awaited debut into the smart home device market could soon be over, with rumors flying that the iPhone maker is nearing the launch of a “new product category.”
As expected, Apple has kept quiet about the news, but sources suggest the product could be a wall-mounted AI-powered tablet, similar to the Amazon Echo Hub or the Google Nest Hub.
Known internally as “J490,” this rumored Apple AI wall tablet is expected to fit right in with Apple’s ecosystem, offering a central hub for home automation, communication, and entertainment, all powered by a quickly-improving Siri and Apple Intelligence.
Will it ever happen? What features would we like to see?
Here’s everything we know so far about this rumored Apple’s AI wall tablet.
Key Takeaways
- Apple is rumored to release a smart home AI wall tablet in 2025, which may come in “basic” and “high-end” models.
- This may be Apple bringing the battle to Amazon and Samsung, offering home security, automation, and an always-on AI assistant.
- Prices may range from $200 (basic model) to $1,000 (high-end), competing with Echo and Nest Hubs in the cheaper range.
- Noted analyst Mark Gurman is the only source of rumors so far — will his hints come to pass?
Is Apple Releasing a Home Wall Tablet?
Although Apple hasn’t confirmed any specific product plans, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported on November 12, 2024, that Apple is finalizing plans on a new home device tablet, which could launch as early as spring 2025.
According to Gurman, the key driver for Apple under this product category is to help pave the way for the company in the smart home market, with Apple noticeable in its absence compared to Amazon, Google, and Samsung.
We expect this upcoming Apple AI tablet to compete with Amazon’s Echo Show and Echo Hub smart displays, as well as Google’s Nest Hub.
Gurman also revealed that a “more expensive follow-up version” is in the pipeline and could be launched in the coming years.
What Would an Apple AI Wall Tablet Look Like?
6-inch Screen, Near-square Design, FaceTime Camera… Robotic Arm?
Apple is said to be working on two versions of the AI wall tablet: a display-only model and a higher-end model.
A notable feature of the display-only model is that it can be wall-mounted, placed on a tabletop stand, or a nightstand.
Gurman also revealed that the higher-end model could feature a robotic arm for screen movement and an AI-powered companion personality — but we expect this model to be further out in the future.
The device is speculated to feature a six-inch screen and could have a near-square design akin to an iPad. Its design may feature a FaceTime camera for videoconferencing and facial recognition. It could be powered by a rechargeable battery and equipped with internal speakers for an enhanced audio experience.
While we are far away from more details, Twitter is already lighting up with some concept ideas:
Apple is reportedly working on a smart home display with a 6" display, new OS, Apple Intelligence, and built-in apps such as FaceTime, Safari, and more
Apple is also working on accessories for the device such as wall attachments and a speaker base. The new product could launch… pic.twitter.com/q7fmKlU8uO
— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) November 13, 2024
Apple's next all-new product has leaked, via @markgurman ??
It's described as an iPad-like smart device for controlling your home.
?? 6-inch display
?? FaceTime camera + speakers
?? Apple Intelligence
?? Can be wall-mounted
?? homeOS software
??? Releasing March 2025 pic.twitter.com/PUYvACXrGf— AppleTrack (@appltrack) November 12, 2024
Early rumors hint at two finishes — silver and black — aligned with Apple’s minimalist aesthetic. The tablet’s interface might also borrow elements from watchOS and the iPhone’s StandBy mode and will adapt based on user proximity and current needs.
While the tablet is expected to function as a standalone product, an iPhone might be required for the initial setup.
Apple AI Wall Tablet Rumored Features & Uses
Pebble OS, App Intents, Intercom Features, Video Cameras, Video Doorbells
Gurman stated in an interview with Bloomberg Radio that the new Apple wall tablet will focus on Siri, communication, and home control.
While the device is expected to feature a touch screen, it could rely mostly on voice commands via Siri and Apple Intelligence’s new App Intents feature.
As per Gurman, the device will likely run on a new operating system called Pebble and could leverage Apple’s HomeKit smart home framework to control many third-party devices, including thermostats, lights, locks, security cameras, sensors, sprinklers, and fans through voice commands and touch interactions.
The Apple wall tablet is also said to have a heavy security focus as well as video/audio intercom features for homes with many Apple home devices.
Tapping into video cameras and video doorbells, plus getting security alerts could be a key feature of the device as well. It might also feature a customizable home screen with Apple widgets and home controls.
Apple AI Wall Tablet: Expected Price
$200 – $400 for the Display-only; $1,000 for Future High-end model
Since this is Apple’s first crack at an AI wall tablet, it’s difficult to know what price tag the company will choose.
However, Gurman, in his Bloomberg interview, made some educated guesses based on the potential features of the product, plus Apple’s historical pricing strategies.
The higher-end model is expected to cost around $1,000, while the display-only version is predicted to be more budget-friendly — potentially priced in line with devices like Amazon’s Echo Show 8 (around $150) or Google’s Nest Hub Max (around $230).
So, we expect the display-only Apple AI wall tablet price to fall between $200 and $400.
However, these are purely speculative. While Apple is renowned for its premium pricing, the company occasionally surprises consumers with competitively priced offerings.
That said, much like the wall tablet, it is best to hang tight and wait for Apple’s official announcement.
The Bottom Line
Apple’s initial venture into the smart home market fell short of expectations. The original HomePod, introduced in 2018, struggled to gain traction due to its steep price and fewer features compared to rival offerings.
This time, the Cupertino-based tech giant has taken a bigger step forward with the rumored AI wall-mounted tablet expected to position the company better in the smart home market after years of trailing Amazon, Samsung, and Google in the market segment.
It is Apple’s first dedicated AI smart home hardware product. The product is expected to tap into Apple HomeKit functionality to control features like thermostats, lights, sensors, and security cameras.
Though the product is said to be coming with a touch screen, users are expected to control the device with their voice, relying on the Siri digital assistant and Apple Intelligence along the line.
Home security, home automation, and a friendly assistant? It is a world painted by sci-fi films since the genre began, and if anyone is going to paint this sleek, minimalist version of the future, Apple is a good bet.
