Apple Announces October 13 'Welcome Home' Event

Apple has announced a 'Welcome home' product launch for Tuesday, October 13, with a new smart home hub expected alongside refreshed HomePod mini and Apple TV models.

Marketing chief Greg Joswiak shared a teaser video showing a rainbow Apple logo being stitched into fabric. His message was brief: 'Welcome home. October 13.'

Invitations sent to members of the press describe an "Apple Experience" in Tribeca, New York, at 9:00 a.m. ET. That time is for the press gathering; Apple has not yet announced a livestream or a public presentation time.

The date matches Bloomberg's reporting on the three home products, which were originally planned for 2024 but delayed by work on Siri AI. The assistant entered beta in September on Apple's existing devices.

The hub is expected to have a roughly six-inch square display, with countertop and wall-mounted versions. The countertop model would sit above a speaker base on an arm that lets users tilt the screen. Both versions would need USB-C power rather than running on a battery.

Designed for use by the whole household, the device would recognize who is speaking or approaching and show that person's messages, calendar, contacts, and preferred apps. A guest mode would keep personal information hidden from visitors. It would also support FaceTime calls, music, and control of connected accessories.

Photos would be another part of the hub's interface. Leaked Photo Face setup screens show options for displaying photos, Memories, and shared albums beside a large clock.

The HomePod mini and Apple TV are expected to keep their current designs while gaining faster processors for Siri AI. Leaked product artwork also points to green and pink speaker colors. These would be the mini's first hardware refresh since 2020 and the first new Apple TV set-top box since 2022.

Apple is also working with LG on smart home accessories, including a video doorbell, smart lock, thermostat, temperature sensor, and security cameras. Those products are expected to carry LG branding, with LG handling manufacturing and support. They are not expected to reach consumers for at least a few more months.