The home hub (which, at times, has been referred to as a HomePad) is Apple’s attempt at a central smart home device. It’s been reported that the home hub will have a 7-inch display, and it will feature a new operating system similar to watchOS in that it uses different widgets that the user interacts with. Since this UI is completely new, the Apple Stores need to be set up to properly demonstrate the device, its software, and the way it works with other devices.
The Apple Store changes are coming this fall, though it’s not clear if “fall” means around the same time as the new iPhones or as late as November. Apple’s iPhone event is rumored to happen around September 9 and is expected to be one of the more momentous iPhone events, since Apple is expected to release its first folding phone. The home hub release is also a major release that’s worthy of more than a simple press release announcement. While Apple could present it at the iPhone event, it seems like the company would want to give it its own event, perhaps in October. Keep an eye on your local Apple Store; if you see some major changes, that means the home hub reveal is coming.
