According to Mark Gurman of BloombergApple is reportedly preparing to launch new versions of the Apple TV and HomePod mini in 2025 as part of a broader effort to revitalize its smart home product line. The big new thing would be… the Wi-Fi chip!
New chip designed by Apple
Both devices would indeed feature a custom-designed Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chip, supporting Wi-Fi 6E. While this first-generation component won’t live up to all of Broadcom’s current capabilities, it promises improved connectivity and faster data syncing between Apple’s smart home devices.
The rest of the new features would be meager according to our colleague, but we can bet on a new chip for increased power and probably AI functionalities via Apple Intelligence.
Launch schedule
Although no specific release date has been confirmed, Gurman suggests the new chip will arrive in iPhones in late 2025, indicating that the Apple TV and updated HomePod mini could debut before September 2025. The HomePod mini 2 has been awaited for a while, it should make people happy.
A connected Hub
But that’s not all. As you know, Apple is also working on a new home hub, provisionally called “Command Center” internally, which is scheduled to launch in 2025. This device will feature:
- A 6-inch screen
- A built-in speaker and camera
- Smart home controls
- Video calling capabilities
It is not yet known whether this device, a new type for Apple, will also integrate Apple’s custom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip.
One thing is certain, Apple wants to put a second foot in the smart home, for the moment dominated by Google and Amazon.
