Apple’s Upcoming Smart Home Hub Could Bring Back the iMac G4 Look

Apple is reportedly preparing to enter a new smart home product category with a dedicated home hub featuring a design inspired by the iconic iMac G4. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the device could be introduced on October 13 alongside updated Apple TV and HomePod mini models.

iMac G4-Inspired Design

The upcoming smart home hub is expected to feature a square 6-inch display mounted above a rounded metal speaker base. A polished metal arm would connect the screen to the base, allowing users to tilt the display forward or backward.

The design reportedly echoes the 2002 iMac G4, which famously placed its display above a half-dome-shaped base. The hub is expected to have a gray aluminum finish, rounded corners, and a black bezel surrounding the screen. Unlike an iPad, the device reportedly will not include a built-in battery. It will remain connected to power through USB-C and is not expected to have physical volume or power buttons.

Designed for the Smart Home

Apple's new hub is expected to act as a central control point for connected devices around the home. Users could control smart home accessories, make FaceTime calls, send intercom-style messages, play music, and view photos.

The device could also be useful in the kitchen, where users may be able to watch videos, look up recipes, and interact with Siri using voice commands. Apple reportedly envisions placing multiple hubs around a home.

Personalized Experience With Siri AI

One of the more notable features could be personalized interaction. The hub is reportedly designed to recognize household members through voice or facial recognition and display content based on the person using it.

The interface could automatically adapt to different users, while a guest mode would help prevent visitors from seeing personal information. In low-light conditions, a display illumination feature could assist the camera with recognizing users.

The software is also expected to combine elements from Apple's existing platforms, including Apple Watch-style app layouts and iPad-style interfaces. Reportedly supported apps include Calendar, Messages, Photos, FaceTime, Notes, Reminders, Music, and Podcasts.

Wall-Mounted Version Also Reported

Apple is reportedly developing a second version designed specifically for wall mounting. Instead of the rounded tabletop base, this model would use a thinner square-shaped base beneath the display that houses the speakers and microphones.

Like the tabletop version, the wall-mounted model would reportedly require a constant USB-C power connection.

Expected October Launch

Bloomberg's latest report points to October 13 as the potential introduction date for Apple's new smart home products. The smart home hub is expected to launch alongside an updated HomePod mini and Apple TV, with the latter devices reportedly retaining their existing designs while gaining newer processors to support Apple's upgraded Siri AI capabilities.

Apple has not officially announced the smart home hub or confirmed its reported specifications and launch date. If the reports are accurate, the product could represent Apple's most significant new push into dedicated smart home hardware in years.