Apple has delayed the release of homeOS and the HomePod with display to the spring of 2026, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said in Sunday’s “Power On” newsletter. However, it seems there’s a chance it might arrive sooner than that.
9to5Mac notes that iOS beta code includes new references to a smart home product.
From the report: The newly introduced file in the code is found at the path /System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/ProgressUI.framework/apple-logo-1088@2x~home.png.
The ‘~home’ suffix indicates this asset is intended to be loaded only on (the still internal) homeOS platform. Moreover, the filename gives us an additional hint about the device’s specs.
Apple’s homeOS software is expected to debut on the company’s upcoming HomePod with display (the “HomePad” or “Command Center”). In the past Gurman has said the device will run a new operating system code-named Pebble, and will include sensors to determine how close a person is.
It will then automatically adjust its features depending on the distance.
For example, if users are several feet away, it might show the temperature. As they approach, the interface can switch to a panel for adjusting the home thermostat.
Gurman says the newly designed operating system will also include a customizable home screen where users can run widgets for checking stock tickers, the weather and appointments. Or they can configure the screen to highlight key home controls. There will also be a dock for quickly launching favorite apps and an iPhone-like home screen grid of software icons, per Gurman.
Here’s what a September 2024 report from 9to5Mac said about a HomePod with display:
° The device will be powered by an A18 processor.
° It has a squarish display rather than an iPad-ish rectangular design.
° It has a built-in camera that works for FaceTime and other video conferencing apps.
° The device uses the camera to identify hand gestures from a distance.
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