Apple Develops New Smart Home Display Inspired by iMac G4

Apple Inc. is currently in the process of creating an innovative smart home display that draws design inspiration from the classic iMac G4. This new device aims to provide a fresh approach to the smart home market.

What Happened: In his recent "Power On" newsletter, renowned Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman shared insights regarding Apple’s upcoming product. According to Gurman, this smart home display may be smaller than many anticipated.

Gurman stated that the device is expected to have a square display, approximately the size of two iPhones placed side by side. It will likely be mounted on a small base that resembles the circular bottom of the iMac G4.

This base could also be equipped with speakers, effectively transforming the device into a screen-compatible HomePod.

Furthermore, the display is said to utilize a new operating system that will incorporate various iPad-like applications, including FaceTime, Notes, and Calendar.

Gurman indicated that Apple plans to launch this product sometime next year. Alongside this device, there is also a higher-end version in development, which may have a larger screen and include a robotic arm for enhanced functionality. This premium version is expected to be priced around $1,000 and is not set to debut until 2026.

It is important to note the context of these developments: Earlier reports have suggested that the tech giant, led by Tim Cook, is exploring advances in robotics, particularly with a product that features a robotic arm to manipulate a display.

These initiatives may reflect Apple's efforts to identify new and significant products following a decline in revenue growth from its flagship, the iPhone.

In relation to this, Apple faces stiff competition in the smart home sector from other major companies such as Amazon.com, Inc. and Alphabet Inc., as well as Samsung Electronics.

Meanwhile, Gurman's newsletter also shed light on Apple’s intention to integrate its next-generation M4 processor into its Mac lineup, focusing on advancements in both AI and gaming performance.

This burgeoning smart home display represents just one part of Apple's larger strategy to innovate and adapt to an unfamiliar market landscape.

Apple, smart, display