The new Apple AI home automation control center is expected to arrive in March 2025: this is what we know

According to rumors, Apple has been exploring the smart home device market for several years, and everything indicates that in March 2025 we could see the launch of its first home automation control device based on Apple Intelligence. This new smart display, which will be wall-mounted, aims to become the control center of our homes, integrating Apple applications, HomeKit, and the artificial intelligence functionalities that Apple has been developing.

Apple TV+ SUBSCRIBE

A control center awaiting its own home automation range

According to Bloomberg, the device, known internally as J490, will have a compact and square design of approximately 6 inches, “similar in size to two iPhones placed side by side, with a noticeable frame around the screen.” It will be available in two color options, black and silver, and will have a camera at the top, as well as a rechargeable battery and built-in speakers. Its design is reminiscent of “classic security panels,” intended to be installed on a wall and quickly accessible.

Regarding the functionalities, the device will offer a proximity detection system thanks to sensors that perceive how many people are nearby and at what distance. In addition to speakers linked to the control center that we could take to other rooms, according to Bloomberg, Apple is also developing external sensors. These would be, as far as we know, connected to wall sockets and could expand the proximity detection capability. Apparently, these additional sensors are still in the testing phase and may not be released.

The integration of Apple Intelligence will be fundamental in this device, as it will allow us to interact through voice commands with Siri. This intelligence will enable the device to change its interface based on our proximity: when we are at a certain distance, the screen could display general interest information, such as the temperature, while as we get closer, the interface could change to offer us specific controls, such as heating regulation.

The operating system that powers this smart display has been nicknamed Pebble and resembles the StandBy of the iPhone or Apple Watch. “The screen will be customizable, allowing us to add widgets to view the most relevant information, from weather and calendars to specific home controls. It will also include a dock for quick access to the most used applications and an icon layout similar to that of iPhones.”

According to Bloomberg, although Apple considered including an app store for this device, it has ultimately discarded this idea, at least in this initial phase. Instead, the system will include a selection of its own applications, such as Safari, FaceTime, Apple Music, and Apple News, in addition to featuring HomeKit for managing smart home devices.

All this information comes at a time when Apple is considering launching a home security camera along with its own line of home automation accessories. One for which we will still have to wait, but it seems that we are beginning to see the centerpiece of the strategy.

Apple TV+ SUBSCRIBE

The launch of this new device in March 2025 could mark the beginning of a new era in Apple’s home automation. For now, we will have to wait a little longer, but Apple’s entry into our homes is great news. We will be keeping an eye on future rumors to discover more about the company’s projects.