In brief: It appears the long-running rumors that Apple is working on a new device that essentially combines the HomePod and the Apple TV are true. Code has been discovered suggesting the product is in the works, and it could support Apple Intelligence.
A code reference on Apple’s backend, discovered by MacRumors, uses the identifier “HomeAccessory17,1” – a new identifier, one that bears a resemblance to the HomePod’s “AudioAccessory” name.
The device itself is thought to feature a speaker and an LCD screen, designed to compete with Amazon’s Echo Show smart displays and the Google Nest series.
The “17,1” part of the identifier name could be an indication that the new device will receive 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 would be able to run Apple Intelligence.
The device is expected to run a version of tvOS. It could work on the rumored homeOS, a combination of tvOS and HomePod software.
The code also makes a reference to two unreleased Apple TV models, AppleTV14,4 and AppleTV14,5. Rumors claim that an updated Apple TV could launch in 2024.
The smart device will likely give users control over HomeKit, among other things, acting as a smart home hub – much like Google Nest.
The inclusion of Apple Intelligence is interesting. Apple announced at WWDC that its Apple Intelligence features would be arriving in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia this fall. OpenAI’s GPT-4o LLM will power some of the AI tasks, including the option to use ChatGPT to help Siri answer user queries – much to the annoyance of Elon Musk. The new smart device might also ask users if they want to consult ChatGPT to answer a question.
Back in May, there were reports that Amazon is considering launching a paid version of Alexa this year that will feature the latest generative AI tech.
Assuming there really is a new smart device coming from Apple, expect it to be unveiled in September, when Cupertino looks set to show off the new iPhones, Apple Watches, iPads, and more.
