Apple’s upcoming new smart home product may be made in Vietnam
Apple plans new smart home products. This image was made by Google Gemini AI
Apple’s latest plans for smart homes will begin arriving in your homes in 2026 and while designed in Cupertino will be made in Vietnam, Bloomberg tells us.
The company is gearing up to launch a new home hub and indoor security camera in 2026, with a tabletop robot (whatever that may turn out to be) scheduled for the following year.
What’s the home hub?
The home hub is like a hybrid between a HomePod and iPad. Equipped with a 7-inch display, the device will run apps and control home devices. Two models will be available, one wall-mounted, the other on a stand. That implies the company hopes people will purchase these devices to manage all those bits of smart home equipment they can still get working once they change their home network.
(How many of my readers now have smart home kit they can’t seem to get working again once they do change networks, not matter how many times they read the manual? I’m willing to bet there’s a few).
Apple had intended to introduce the product earlier this year but problems in Siri development delayed the schedule. Features will include microphones for Siri, audio out, FaceTime support and person recognition sensors. The systems will hold different setups for different members of the family, and the system can be considered to be a non-ads-driven competitor to the Amazon Echo Show. Pricing is speculated at $350, but this could fall more by the time it makes its debut.
What else is coming?
An Apple-designed security camera is in the works. This will likely combine Apple’s privacy with on-device tools for facial recognition and more. The idea is that no one other than yourself will know what your camera sees, unlike some systems currently sold. I imagine the video captured will be far more searchable than most such systems currently provide.
The ”tabletop robot?” This apparently is a screen on an arm that moves around to track you when using it. This could be good for group video conferencing and working in kitchens, I guess, plus possible use in hospitality and retail.
Made in Vietnam
Apple is working with BYD in Vietnam to begin producing these devices. This is a break from its traditional approach in which it usually begins manufacturing new products in China. BYD will handle assembly, testing, and packaging. Apple already makes iPads, AirPods, Apple Watches and Macs in Vietnam as it continues the challenging and delicate attempt to become less reliant on China, while maintaining positive relationships on all sides, as an international company must.
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