Apple’s long-awaited smart home hub has circulated for far too long, but fresh leaks suggest the device may finally be nearing launch. The HomePad is expected to be Apple’s next major step into the smart home space. The rumoured device has previously been described as a blend of an iPad and a HomePod. However, the newly discovered references in iOS 26 code paint an even clearer picture. According to these findings, Apple appears to be preparing a device designed to play a central role in everyday home interactions. If the latest leaks are accurate, the upcoming hub will feature a built-in camera, support Apple’s next-generation intelligence features, and recognise individual users, which positions it as a shared household companion. Apple is expected to reveal the device alongside the upgraded Siri arriving with iOS 26.4, likely in March or April.
The conversation around Apple’s smart home hub intensified further after Macworld published a report claiming access to internal iOS 26 files. These files highlight several features currently being tested by Apple engineers, with the most notable being a built-in 1080p camera. While not intended for creators or video professionals, the camera is expected to support everyday household uses such as video calls and home monitoring.
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The hub will reportedly also use Face ID to recognise whoever is standing in front of it, allowing the system to switch profiles automatically. For families in India, where shared devices are common, this could make the hub especially convenient by enabling each user to receive personalised recommendations, reminders, and controls without manually logging in.
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Support for Apple Intelligence and the next generation of Siri is likely to be another major highlight. Apple is said to be focusing on smoother, more natural conversations and more helpful day-to-day assistance. Earlier rumours also suggest the hub will feature a square seven-inch display and an optional speaker base, allowing it to function both as a smart display and as an audio device.
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Internal software references also mention a second product labelled ‘J229’, which appears to be an accessory rather than a standalone device. It may serve as a compact home security camera capable of listening for alarms and capturing images when needed. This aligns with earlier speculation that Apple intends to expand further into home security.