Apple, the tech giant known for its innovative products, is reportedly gearing up to launch a new AI-powered wall tablet that could shake up the smart home landscape. Codenamed J490, this device is rumored to be Apple’s answer to Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub, aiming to become the central hub for home automation and control.
Sources familiar with the project, speaking to Bloomberg, revealed that the J490 will offer a range of features, including appliance control, video calling, and AI-powered app navigation. It’s expected to be unveiled as early as March, with a sleek design that includes a 6-inch screen, camera, rechargeable battery, and speakers. The device will also combine the functionalities of Apple Watch and iPhone StandBy modes, with Siri and Apple Intelligence serving as the primary interface.
While the base model is expected to be affordable, a higher-end version with enhanced capabilities could reach a price tag of up to $1,000. The J490 will function as a standalone device, but users will need an iPhone for certain tasks.
This move highlights Apple’s commitment to establishing a dominant position in the smart home market, an area where it has lagged behind its rivals, Amazon and Google. Apple CEO Tim Cook has reportedly prioritized the development of this device, urging engineers and designers to bring it to market after over three years of work.
Furthermore, Apple is also rumored to be developing a new smart home display inspired by the iMac G4’s design. The company also plans to enter the smart home IP camera market in 2026, aiming for a substantial annual shipment volume.
This series of initiatives indicates Apple’s intention to make a significant impact on the rapidly evolving smart home market. With its established brand reputation, strong ecosystem, and focus on user experience, Apple’s entry into the smart home arena is likely to be met with considerable interest from consumers and industry players alike.
