Reports suggest Apple is on the verge of unveiling three fresh smart home devices built around Siri AI to grow its footprint in the connected home space. A fresh account indicates the range will feature a smart home hub, an updated HomePod mini and a new Apple TV. The Apple TV and HomePod mini are slated for release later this year, while the smart home hub is projected to appear from October into early next year. These gadgets are poised to usher in Apple's upcoming wave of AI-driven home features.

Per a Bloomberg account, Apple has three smart home items approaching release. The coming selection is set to feature a Siri AI-driven smart home hub, together with updated editions of the Apple TV and HomePod mini. The Apple TV and HomePod mini are expected this autumn, while the smart home hub may arrive from October into early next year.

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The smart home hub is projected to include an approximately 7-inch square display and operate on a fresh software base drawn from tvOS. Its interface is described as blending aspects of tvOS, iOS and watchOS, with apps, widgets and icon layouts. The unit may enable FaceTime, home security oversight and an intercom mode, while serving as a command point for smart home items like speakers and locks. Users could reach calendars, photos and music, plus adjustable clock displays akin to the Apple Watch.

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The account notes that facial recognition will be key to the setup. The hub is expected to detect users, customise the display accordingly and shift on-screen items by viewing distance. It may also present tailored content such as calendars and notes.

The Cupertino firm is said to be creating two hub editions. The J490 model pairs the screen with a half-dome stand modelled on the HomePod mini, while the J491 version supports wall mounting via a magnetic system. The company is also expected to supply an iPhone app for setup and control, and reportedly plans for the hub to serve multiple rooms in a home.

The updated Apple TV and HomePod mini are expected to keep existing designs but gain quicker processors to enable Siri AI. The units reportedly use internal names J265 and B525. Apple recently lifted US prices for the Apple TV and HomePod mini to $199 and $129.

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The source links the postponed hardware rollout to Siri AI work. Apple had aimed to launch the items with a revamped Siri in 2024, yet engineering issues reportedly led to multiple timeline shifts ahead of the present window.

Apple is described as already developing additional smart home items. One is a premium hub with a 9-inch screen on a robotic arm that can move the panel during use, including FaceTime sessions. The account also indicates Apple seeks to improve its standing versus Amazon and Google after modest results from prior HomePod and Apple TV offerings in the smart home arena.