Apple's future smart home device looks like a mash-up of its HomePod and iMac G4

Apple could be releasing its smart home displays starting next year.

As Apple continues to release new or updated versions of its devices, including the iPhone 16, smartwatches, and future Macs, the company also has plans to release its smart home equipment.

It's been reported that the company has been working on a smart home display. It's expected to have a square screen the size of two iPhones placed together on a small base.

The whole setup is reminiscent of the iMac G4, an Apple computer first released in 2002.

The future device could include speakers, making it a HomePod with a screen, according to Bloomberg.

The company wants its future smart home screen to be small and cheap so that it can be incorporated anywhere at home. The device could also run on a new operating system and could include apps that are already available on the iPad, such as FaceTime, Notes, and Calendar.

The device’s main purpose is to function as a hub that controls other smart home accessories. It is also used as a screen to show slideshows and photos.

Apple's smart home display is expected to be launched next year.

It isn't the only home-related device the company plans to release. Previously, it was reported that the smart home screen could be one of two-tier devices, with another, a high-end gadget rolling out in 2026.

This smart home screen is expected to have a larger screen and a robotic limb, priced close to a thousand dollars.

Once the news was shared on X (formerly Twitter), a discussion started online, with many awaiting the new device.

“As long as the new Apple smart home display can do the basics - show HomeKit camera/doorbell notifications & Airplay the streaming apps - then I can finally start to replace some of my Google Nest Hub Max (albeit not all due to the security cameras they offer),” shared one of X users.

Another user hinted at Apple having to compete with other established smart home device makers: “Definitely interested in seeing how Apple differentiates this from Google‘s products or Amazon.”

One way the company can stand out is through its design, which is often inspired by Apple’s older devices. This was also noted by users online.

“Wonder if it'll swivel like the old iMacs. That'd be pretty neat for a smart display,” said one X user.

“I still have that iMac. I have thought about converting it at one time. But it is like a piece of art. If they did this right, it could be a real winner,” concluded another user online.