Apple reportedly readies 7-inch smart display with ChatGPT-like Siri, indoor camera and tabletop robot

Apple is reportedly expanding into more smart home devices, with a 7-inch square smart display expected in spring 2026, an indoor camera, and a motorized tabletop robot slated for 2027. The display is said to include a FaceTime camera and a more capable Siri that uses web-backed chat-style responses.

According to reporting based on Bloomberg sources, Apple plans two versions of the home hub: one that sits on a HomePod mini–style speaker and another designed for wall mounting. The company is reportedly targeting a price around $350 and has moved production plans to Vietnam — a notable shift away from relying solely on China.

Key details

• 7-inch square LCD smart display with built-in FaceTime camera and dynamic user-aware UI.
• Improved Siri that behaves more like current chatbots (e.g., uses web sources to craft answers).
• Two variants: J940 (display on a speaker) and J491 (wall-mounted design); target price ~ $350.
• Tabletop robot (2027) with a 9-inch display on a motorized arm — delayed by motor engineering challenges.
• Production is reportedly planned in Vietnam, reflecting Apple’s diversification of manufacturing.

These devices would expand Apple’s smart home footprint and compete more directly with products like Amazon’s Echo Show line (the Echo Show 10 has a swiveling display). The reported improvements to Siri could be one of the most impactful changes, potentially altering how users interact with Apple devices across the home.

For the original coverage, see the Engadget summary of the Bloomberg report: Engadget: Apple’s long-rumored smart display.

Discussion: Would you welcome an Apple-branded smart display and tabletop robot in your home? What features matter most to you?