Apple is set to unveil a bustling assortment of hardware releases shortly, featuring two entirely new Home products: an updated Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini 2. Here’s what is anticipated.
## Updated Apple TV 4K
It has been almost three years since new Apple TV hardware was launched, but that wait is soon coming to an end. A completely revamped Apple TV 4K is expected this fall with numerous rumored enhancements.
The A15 Bionic chip in the existing model is likely to be superseded by an A17 Pro chip. A significant motivation for this chip upgrade is to facilitate Apple Intelligence, which demands more processing power than the current Apple TV chip provides. While Apple has yet to reveal any specific Apple Intelligence features for tvOS 26, it could unveil them alongside the introduction of the new Apple TV 4K model.
Another speculated addition to the new Apple TV 4K is a built-in camera, and clues in tvOS 26 seem to bolster that notion. Making video calls via FaceTime and other services would become far more user-friendly without the need to rely on your iPhone.
Additionally, Apple’s first proprietary Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip will be introduced with the new Apple TV. While this may not seem thrilling at first glance, Apple’s 5G modem wasn’t particularly exciting until the C1 was revealed with significant advantages. Mark Gurman observes: “With a homegrown wireless chip in Apple’s smart home products, the devices will collaborate more seamlessly and may synchronize data more efficiently.”
## HomePod mini 2
The HomePod mini made its debut nearly five years ago, in November 2020. Speculation suggests that we are finally on the verge of seeing the first hardware update. A recent Bloomberg article indicates that substantial upgrades are on the way, including new features such as:
– Replacement chip for the current S5
– Compatibility with Apple Intelligence and the new Siri
– Enhanced ultra-wideband chip
– Superior audio quality
– New color options, including a potential red
– Apple’s latest in-house Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip
Apple’s updated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip may enhance cross-device connectivity and is likely to support a more advanced Wi-Fi standard than the previous version—possibly Wi-Fi 6E or 7.
## Conclusion on New Apple TV and HomePod Products
This was initially anticipated to be a significant year for Apple’s smart home ambitions, but setbacks with the ‘HomePad’ product (which might be named HomePod Touch) derailed those intentions. However, if Apple can successfully launch robust updates for the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini, followed by the new HomePod Touch in the spring, we could be on track for a stronger Apple Home ecosystem than ever before.
Are you excited about the new Apple TV 4K or HomePod mini 2? Share your thoughts in the comments.
