Apple has been working on a docking accessory that would turn the iPad into a Smart Home Display
Apple has been working on a docking accessory that would turn the iPad into a Smart Home Display
Apple has been working on a plug-in iPad which would allow customers to transform the device into a smart home display, similar to Google’s approach with the Pixel tablet.
During Google’s latest event, it announced that it will offer a charging speaker dock that magnetically attaches to the back of the upcoming Pixel tablet, essentially turning it into a smart home display like the Nest Hub and Nest Hub Max. Gurman said today that he expects Apple to bring similar functionality to the iPad next year through a docking accessory that would be sold separately, while the company is working on a standalone product for the home that combines a screen and a smart speaker.
He writes in his latest Power On newsletterGourmet said:
I’m told that Apple is working on bringing similar functionality to the iPad as early as 2023. Last year, I reported that Apple was exploring a standalone device that combined an iPad with a speaker hub. The idea is to offer something that users can place on the kitchen counter, in the living room or on their bedside table. But Apple has also been working on a docking accessory for the iPad that could be sold separately and would accomplish much of the same thing.
An iPad docking accessory could allow users to use their iPad to control various functions in their home through the Home app, FaceTime front-facing iPad camera calls with Center Stage and more.
Compared to Google and Amazon, Apple has kept a low profile with home products, releasing only HomePod mini in October 2020 before the original HomePod was discontinued in March 2021. The new full-sized HomePod is one of several products that Apple is expected to release in 2023. According to rumors, the new full-sized HomePod will retain the same design as the original smart speaker, but have faster performance and possibly a new screen.
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