Unveiling the Anticipated Innovations at Apple’s ‘Welcome Home’ Event

Apple is gearing up for its upcoming “Welcome Home” launch event, where we can expect a range of smart home-related announcements. Anticipated updates include new versions of Apple TV and HomePod Mini, as well as the introduction of a new smart home hub. Additionally, there may be a new platform called homeOS and potential partner devices from LG.

However, the long-rumored touchscreen MacBook is unlikely to make an appearance at this event, according to insider Mark Gurman.

The “Welcome Home” event is set to kick off in New York on October 13th at 9AM ET. Here’s a preview of what we can expect.

Apple has primarily used the Home app to manage smart home devices, but it seems the company is ready to delve deeper into this market niche. The new device, possibly named HomePad or HomeView, is rumored to feature a 6-inch square touchscreen that can be wall-mounted or placed on a surface like a table or countertop. According to Gurman, the countertop model may resemble the iMac G4, with a screen attached to an arm set into a half sphere.

Gurman suggests that the device may be called HomeView instead of HomePad, as it won’t offer an iPad-like experience due to the absence of an App Store.

The device is expected to incorporate voice or facial recognition for user identification, displaying relevant contacts, calendar appointments, and more. For added security, Apple may offer a secondary identification method through an iPhone. The new software platform, which may be named homeOS, is said to have a streamlined interface resembling a combination of iOS, tvOS, and watchOS. It will focus on smart home applications like thermostat and smart lock controls, as well as FaceTime capabilities.

Reports suggest that Apple may have registered a trademark for the platform’s name through a shell company called Home Operations Suite LLC. The platform is expected to include familiar Apple apps like Apple Music, Podcasts, News, Reminders, Notes, and Siri AI.

In terms of hardware updates, the HomePod Mini and Apple TV are likely to receive minor refreshes. While the designs remain unchanged, both devices will receive a new processor to accommodate the demands of Siri AI. This will be the first update to the HomePod Mini since its launch in October 2020, with new color options like green and pink being introduced.

The Apple TV, on the other hand, will see its first hardware refresh since 2022. Along with Siri AI support, the new processor is expected to improve navigation speed. Rumors suggest that the device will feature an integrated microphone, eliminating the need for a remote or paired HomePod for Siri control. The remote may also include a speaker for easier location tracking.

Both devices are likely to include Apple’s N1 chip, which supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 6.0.

At the event, we may hear about products that integrate with HomeKit and offer new features based on homeOS and Apple’s hardware hub. While LG is expected to showcase smart home devices like deadbolts and thermostats, Apple is likely to maintain the spotlight. LG’s devices may include features like NFC-based Proximity Control and a “tap to set up without power” pairing feature.

In an update from October 11th, 2026, additional rumors from Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter were included.

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