On this week’s episode of The Show, we look ahead to Apple’s recently announced October 13 event and its expected push into the smart home market, including a dedicated home hub, the HomePod mini 2, and a new Apple TV. Siri AI should be central to all three devices, following years of delays. The impending launch also comes amid Apple’s reported efforts under CEO John Ternus to introduce products more frequently and accelerate development.
Moving beyond predictable spring and fall release cycles could give Apple more opportunities to experiment, particularly in categories where existing products have gone years without substantial hardware changes. The home hub should feature a square 6-inch display, with a tabletop version resembling the iMac G4 and a separate wall-mounted model. Its new operating system reportedly combines customizable clock and photo displays, Apple Watch-style app icons, and iPad-like layouts.
A range of apps including FaceTime, Music, Calendar, Notes, and more should make it useful for quick interactions throughout the day. Facial and voice recognition will bring up individual profiles, while a guest mode will hide personal information from visitors. The device may start at around $350.
Apple has confirmed a special โWelcome homeโ product launch event is happening next Tuesday, October 13. But it hasnโt yet said whether there will be a keynote video.
Hereโs what we know. Will Appleโs โWelcome homeโ event be livestreamed? Hereโs what we know.
Apple announces special event for October 13: โWelcome homeโ Ryan Christoffel Oct 8 2026.
The ‌Apple TV‌ 4K may tout an A19 or A19 Pro chip, additional memory, Apple’s N1 networking chip, and an updated ‌Siri‌ Remote, while retaining its existing design. The hardware should improve gaming performance and enable Apple Intelligence and Siri AI.
The ‌HomePod mini‌ 2 is also expected to retain its current design, with leaked images revealing green, pink, and lighter blue finishes alongside white and black. A faster S-series chip would support Siri AI.
A new full-sized HomePod is reportedly planned for a later date. Separately, software findings point to four-HomePod surround sound mode.
Apple’s reported collaboration with LG could help expand the ecosystem around the home hub. The planned lineup includes a video doorbell, deadbolt lock, thermostat, and temperature sensor, along with indoor, outdoor, and floodlight cameras.
These would carry LG branding, with Apple reportedly contributing to their development. Apple’s longer-term plans also include its own privacy-focused camera and sensor, reportedly designed to analyze the home without recording video.
A higher-end home hub with a 9-inch display mounted on a robotic arm also reportedly remains in development. Apple has now announced a product event for Tuesday, October 13, sharing a "Welcome home" teaser.
Selected members of the media have been invited to an "Apple Experience" in Tribeca, New York, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Show has its own YouTube channel, so make sure you’re subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips.
You can also listen to ‌The Show‌ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or other podcast apps. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your player.
Discover more from ChuckysCarnage
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
