Nova domača oprema: Apple je končno pripravljen, da

Apple has finally set a release date for its long-overlooked home and entertainment devices, according to reports from multiple sources. The company is reportedly preparing to launch updated versions of the Apple TV and HomePod Mini, along with a new device known internally as the “Home Hub.” These updates come after months of speculation and delays, with Apple having previously postponed the project due to reliance on the still-in-development Siri AI system. According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the new devices will debut this autumn, with the Home Hub arriving later, likely between October and early next year. This marks a major shift for Apple, which has historically lagged behind competitors in the smart-home space. The delay was largely tied to the development of Siri AI, a more advanced version of Apple’s virtual assistant that aims to make its home devices significantly smarter. Gurman noted that Apple had been waiting for the completion of this AI system before proceeding with the hardware upgrades. Once available, Siri AI will run on new chips inside both the Apple TV and HomePod Mini, codenamed B525 and J265 respectively. These updates are expected to bring improved performance and enhanced functionality, though they may also result in higher prices. Recent price hikes for older models have already raised concerns among consumers, and the new devices could follow a similar trajectory, potentially costing up to 300 euros for the latest Apple TV models. The Home Hub represents a more ambitious step forward for Apple’s smart-home ecosystem. It is being developed in two variants: one designed as a wall-mounted display resembling an iPad, and another featuring a base station with integrated speakers. The latter model appears to resemble a half-sized HomePod Mini, suggesting a focus on audio quality and spatial awareness. The Home Hub is intended to serve as a central hub for Apple’s HomeKit platform, offering features such as video conferencing via FaceTime, live camera feeds, and intercom functions for multi-device setups. It also includes facial recognition technology to personalize the user experience based on who is present. In addition to these core functionalities, the Home Hub will support widgets and a grid-based app layout, blending elements of watchOS and iOS into its interface. A dedicated iPhone app will assist users during setup, ensuring seamless integration with other Apple products. While the Home Hub does not include its own app store, it will host a range of apps tailored to smart-home management. Apple has also hinted at future iterations of the device, including a robotic variant capable of rotating to interact with users. However, the release date for this version remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Apple is exploring ways to monetize its growing reliance on artificial intelligence. CEO Tim Cook mentioned during recent earnings calls that the company is considering additional pricing tiers for iCloud+ subscribers who heavily use Siri AI. This would allow users to pay extra for increased computing power needed to run the AI-driven features. While Apple has not yet released specific cost details, the move suggests a strategic shift toward generating revenue from cloud-based services. This comes amid broader challenges in Apple’s services division, which saw slightly lower-than-expected revenue in the last quarter, partly due to regulatory changes affecting the App Store and reduced demand for mobile gaming. As Apple prepares to unveil its updated home devices and expand its smart-home offerings, the tech giant faces mounting pressure to keep pace with rivals like Amazon and Google. With the Home Hub and new Siri AI capabilities, Apple aims to strengthen its position in the evolving smart-home market. Whether these updates will meet consumer expectations remains to be seen, but the timing signals a renewed commitment to innovation in the home automation sector.