While WWDC 2026 delivered a significant number of software updates for Apple Home, many users were left asking the same question: where is the new hardware? A new report from Mark Gurman suggests Apple is preparing a major refresh of its home product lineup, with updated versions of Apple TV, HomePod mini, and the long-rumoured Home Hub all expected to arrive during 2026. However, one of Apple’s more ambitious smart home projects could still be several years away.
New Apple TV and HomePod mini Expected in 2026
According to the latest information from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to launch updated versions of both the Apple TV and HomePod mini sometime in 2026.
While details remain limited, the next generation Apple TV is expected to support Apple Intelligence features in some capacity. Previous rumours have suggested the device could feature a more powerful processor, Apple’s own networking technology, and potentially a redesigned Siri Remote.
The HomePod mini is also expected to receive an update, although the biggest change may simply be support for Apple’s new Siri architecture and Apple Intelligence features. Whether Apple introduces significant audio or hardware improvements remains unclear, but of course they are likely todo so given the hardware is 6 years old now. We should also expect to see new colours.
For Apple Home users, these products are arguably overdue for an update. The current HomePod mini launched in 2020, while the Apple TV 4K received its last major hardware refresh in 2022.
Home Hub Still Appears on Track
The report also suggests Apple’s Home Hub remains on course for a 2026 launch.
The device is expected to act as a dedicated smart home controller, featuring a 6 or 7 inch display designed around Apple Home, Siri, widgets, cameras, and home controls. Rather than being a fixed product, Apple is reportedly developing a modular approach, allowing the display to be paired with different mounting options including wall mounts, and desk stands
Given the significant investment Apple showcased at WWDC around Apple Intelligence, HomeKit Secure Video, intelligent notifications, camera search, and Siri improvements, a dedicated home display now feels more important than ever.
The Robotic Home Device Remains a Longer-Term Project
One device that appears to be further away is Apple’s robotic smart display. Rumours have circulated for some time about a more advanced Home Hub featuring a robotic arm capable of physically moving and tracking users around a room. According to Gurman, this product is unlikely to arrive before 2027 or even 2028.
What This Means for Apple Home
If these timelines prove accurate, 2026 could finally become the year Apple gives its smart home hardware the attention many users have been waiting for.
WWDC 2026 made it clear that Apple’s vision for the smart home increasingly revolves around Apple Intelligence. Features such as intelligent notifications, natural language camera search, advanced video analysis, and a much more capable Siri all point towards a future where Apple’s home ecosystem becomes significantly more proactive and context aware.
The missing piece is hardware.
A new Apple TV, updated HomePod mini, and dedicated Home Hub would provide the physical foundation for that vision. The robotic display may still be years away, but for Apple Home users, 2026 is shaping up to be the most important year for Apple’s smart home ambitions in a long time.
