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Apple plans to launch several new products for the home in 2026. The focus will be on devices with which the company aims to further expand its position in the smart home sector. These include a new HomePod mini, a central Home Hub, and its own security and doorbell cameras.
While more advanced projects like robotics solutions are not expected until 2027, the new products for 2026 are comparatively modest. Nevertheless, they mark an important step in Apple's strategy for the connected home.
Apple has been pursuing a gradual expansion in the smart home sector for years. HomeKit, Apple Home, and the previous HomePod models laid the foundation. For 2026, a stronger focus on centralized control, personalization, and data privacy is emerging.
The planned products are not intended to function in isolation, but rather to be closely integrated. The Home Hub, in particular, plays a central role in this. At the same time, Apple remains true to its approach of further developing existing concepts instead of making radical design changes.
HomePod mini 2: Technical upgrade without design change
The HomePod mini 2 is expected in 2026. According to current information, the external appearance will not change significantly. However, new color options are possible. Several improvements are planned for the internal components:
- An updated S-series chip, based on the chip in the Apple Watch Series 10
- Improvements in sound quality and real-time audio processing
- Upgrade to Bluetooth 5.3 for improved connectivity
- A second-generation ultra-wideband chip
The current HomePod mini costs €109. It is assumed that Apple will maintain this price for the new model. Overall, the HomePod mini 2 is a technical update that optimizes existing functions without fundamentally changing the concept.
Home Hub: Central control for the Apple Smart Home
A key new product for 2026 is the so-called Home Hub, also known as the HomePad. It is designed to serve as a central hub for all family members, consolidating various functions. The Home Hub will allow users to, among other things:
- Controlling smart home devices
- Making calls
- Listen to music
- Get weather information
- Use Siri
- View photos
- View the family calendar
Rumors suggest the Home Hub will be equipped with presence sensors that detect when someone is in the room. An integrated camera will also be able to identify who is speaking to the device. Based on this information, a personalized selection of apps and functions can be displayed for each individual. The following technical features are expected:
- Face ID
- Integrated speakers
- An A18 chip
- Support for Apple Intelligence
There will be no separate app store. Instead, the Home Hub will run selected Apple apps directly, including:
- Safari
- Apple Music
- Notes
- Calendar
- Photos
- Apple News
Two model variants are planned:
- A model for wall mounting
- A model with a speaker base that visually resembles a HomePod mini.
Previous rumors suggested that Apple might unveil the Home Hub alongside a new version of Siri. The smarter Siri was originally slated for iOS 26.4, but could now be partially delayed until iOS 26.5. Such a delay could also affect the Home Hub's launch.
Apple Security Camera and Doorbell Camera
In addition to speakers and display devices, Apple is working on its own indoor security cameras. These are intended to connect directly to Apple Home and communicate with the Home Hub.
Additionally, there are indications of a doorbell camera with Face ID. This could be connected to a door lock, thus enabling enhanced access control.
All Apple-designed cameras are intended to support HomeKit Secure Video. This includes:
- End-to-End Encryption
- Focus on data protection
- Integration into the existing Apple ecosystem
Further details regarding technical specifications are not yet known. There are also conflicting reports about the exact release date. Should Apple actually launch the cameras in 2026, a release towards the end of the year is more likely.
Planned release period: 2026
The current state of rumors and reports suggests the following timeline:
- HomePod mini 2: Early 2026, probably before WWDC
- Home Hub: Also in early 2026, possibly in connection with the new Siri version
- Security cameras and doorbell cameras: Expected later in 2026
Robotic solutions for the home are not expected until 2027 and are not part of the 2026 product strategy.
Apple 2026: Expanding the Smart Home with a clear strategy
In 2026, Apple is focusing on targeted expansions rather than a fundamental overhaul in the smart home sector. The HomePod mini 2 will receive technical improvements while retaining its design and, presumably, the same price. The Home Hub will serve as a central control hub and enable personalization using Apple Intelligence. The portfolio will be complemented by Apple's own security and doorbell cameras with HomeKit Secure Video and end-to-end encryption. Overall, Apple is pursuing a clear strategy: stronger integration, centralized control, and enhanced data privacy in the connected home. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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