Apple Stores reportedly preparing major changes ahead of rumored smart home launches
David Joseppi
Posted On 23/08/2026 
Apple is reportedly preparing significant changes to its retail stores ahead of a wave of new smart home product launches expected later this year.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to update parts of its in-store layout this autumn, including changes to its product display areas and new accessory bays designed to showcase upcoming Home products.
The changes are said to be more substantial than what Apple would typically prepare for routine updates to existing products, suggesting the company may be getting ready to launch more than just refreshed versions of the HomePod miniand Apple TV 4K.
Apple is already expected to introduce an upgraded Apple TV and a new HomePod mini later this year, both of which are likely to support the company’s new Siri AI features. However, the scale of the retail preparations has raised speculation that Apple’s long-rumored smart home hub could also be close to launch.
The device, sometimes referred to as HomePad or a HomePod with a display, is expected to be Apple’s most significant smart home product in years. Reports have suggested it will feature a roughly 7-inch display, run a new home-focused operating system, support widgets, enable FaceTime calls, and act as a central control point for HomeKit accessories.
Apple is believed to be developing two versions of the product. One model is expected to sit on a speaker-style base for use on a desk, shelf, or kitchen counter, while another could be designed for wall mounting using magnets.
The Home hub has reportedly been delayed while Apple worked to complete its next-generation Siri experience. With Siri AI now moving closer to release, Apple appears to be preparing the rest of its smart home lineup around the upgraded assistant.
A refreshed Apple TV 4K is also expected to arrive with improved performance and possibly an updated Siri Remote, while the new HomePod mini could bring a faster chip, improved wireless connectivity, and better support for Apple Intelligence features around the home.
The reported retail changes suggest Apple wants to give its Home products more visibility inside stores, potentially creating dedicated areas where customers can see how Apple TV, HomePod, HomeKit accessories, Siri, and the rumored Home hub work together.
