Tech Desk: Apple is officially shifting focus from iPhones to the smart home, kicking off a new era with its highly anticipated ‘Welcome Home’ event. Set for October 13 in Tribeca, New York, this event promises a lineup of innovative smart home products, spearheaded by a groundbreaking smart home display and significant updates to the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini.

The star of the show is expected to be Apple’s smart home display, unofficially dubbed ‘HomePad’. This device reportedly features a 6-inch square screen on a half-dome base, designed to be a central hub for connected homes. Available in wall-mounted and countertop versions, it’s tipped to integrate elements of watchOS, tvOS, and iPadOS, offering personalized experiences for every household member.

Beyond the new display, the Apple TV 4K is set for its first refresh since 2022. While retaining its familiar design, internal upgrades will include an A19 or A19 Pro chip, bringing advanced Siri AI and Apple Intelligence features to the streaming device. Code references also suggest exciting new software features, like the ability to arrange four full-sized HomePod speakers into a surround sound setup.

Rounding out the announcements, the HomePod mini is expected to get a successor, the HomePod mini 2. This refreshed model will boast a considerably faster processor, enhancing Siri AI capabilities and arriving in a vibrant array of colors, including pink, white, green, blue, and black. Apple’s ‘Welcome Home’ event signals a clear intent to redefine the connected living experience.