Apple's rumoured 'HomeAccessory' likely to have A18 chip, square display

The long-rumoured smart home device named “Home Accessory” might be Apple’s next product to be powered by the super-efficient A18 chip, according to recent leaks. The much-awaited device is likely to include the combined capabilities of an iPad, Apple TV, and HomePod.

Apple’s next-generation HomePod might run A18 chip

According to sources, the Home Accessory will be Apple’s new smart home device, code-named J490, and will be equipped by an A18 chip to support Apple Intelligence features. 

Notably, the recently launched iPhone 16 lineup also features a similar A18 chip. However, the chip won’t be available on older HomePod models. 

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Home Accessory specs (rumoured)

Additionally, the sources also suggested that the new smart home device will also feature a square-shaped display, rather than the iPad-like rectangular format. It will include a built-in camera to support FaceTime and other video calling apps. 

The device might also include Apple TV’s ability to run apps and play media on its own. However, the display will feature a customisable Lock Screen with multiple clock faces, integrated on Apple TV with tvOS 18, and will also act as an AirPlay receiver. 

It’s worth noting that these are all just rumours and Apple is yet to finalise the exact name for this next-generation home device which is expected to launch by spring 2025.