Smart Home Market Becomes Apple’s Next Strategic Target; New HomePod with Display Set to Be Key Product in Apple’s Smart Home Strategy
2 min readDec 4, 2024
- The mass production schedule for the display-equipped HomePod has been delayed multiple times. Initially forecasted for 2024 (as I predicted in 2023), it was postponed to 1Q25, and more recently, further delayed to after WWDC 2025/3Q25.
- The delay in production is mainly due to software development. The display-equipped HomePod is expected to feature an A18 processor, a 6–7 inch display, and support for the Apple Intelligence.
- Compared to the current HomePod lineup, the display-equipped HomePod will emphasize smart home functionalities more. It can be seen as Apple’s strategic repositioning of the HomePod product line.
- Apple has a history of successfully repositioning existing products. A notable example is the Apple Watch, which transitioned from an iPhone accessory and fashion product to a health management device.
- I previously predicted that Apple would launch a smart home IP camera in 2026, which will be able to wirelessly connect with the display-equipped HomePod. I believe Apple will tightly integrate these two new products with its existing ecosystem and HomeKit to deliver a seamless smart home experience.
- Apple’s patents related to authentication demonstrate the company’s strong interest in the smart home market. Similar to the importance of Face ID and Touch ID for mobile/portable devices, Apple has proposed solutions for identity authentication in the smart home space, which will help promote smart home applications.
- The display-equipped HomePod is expected to ship around 500,000 units in 2H25. If the market response is positive, this product’s annual shipments could reach the million-unit level.
