Apple's Square Smart Hub with Face ID Arrives Next Month
Apple's J490 hub uses facial recognition without Face ID hardware, launching next month under CEO John Ternus.
Key points
- Apple's J490 smart hub launches next month with a square screen and new OS blending iOS and tvOS.
- The device uses facial recognition without Face ID hardware, potentially paving the way for face unlock on future iPhones.
- The launch was delayed until Siri AI improved in iOS 27 to enable cross-device search and task management.
Apple is set to release its long-awaited smart home display as early as next month, marking the first major hardware launch under CEO John Ternus. The device, known internally as J490, features a square screen and facial recognition capabilities that distinguish it from previous Apple products. According to The Times of India, the device has already been widely tested in employee homes.
The hub is designed to function as a central control point for the home, running a new operating system that blends elements of iOS, tvOS, and watchOS. It offers two form factors: a tabletop version resembling a halved HomePod mini and a wall-mounted option. This launch addresses a gap in Apple's ecosystem, providing a dedicated screen for home-based interactions that the iPhone cannot fully replace.
Face recognition without dedicated hardware
The device's front camera identifies users without relying on the depth-sensing hardware used in Face ID. This allows the system to rearrange content, such as calendars and music, based on who is present. Analysts suggest this technology could eventually enable face-based unlocking on the iPhone Duo, which currently relies on Touch ID.
Siri integration delays product launch
Apple delayed this device from 2024 until the Siri AI assistant was updated in iOS 27. The hub now allows Siri to search across devices and accounts, retrieving specific podcasts or managing tasks in Notes and Calendar. This integration is critical for the device's utility, as it moves beyond simple voice commands to contextual, multi-app interactions.
Strategic shift in home technology
This launch fulfills a long-standing goal for Apple to dominate home environments, a sector where competitors like Amazon have been strong. While Apple has secured the home and mobile spaces, the car remains a challenge beyond CarPlay. The new hub represents a tangible step in expanding Apple's presence in daily life outside of the pocket-sized iPhone.
