Brief

Apple to unveil HomePad smart hub and HomePod Mini refresh on Oct. 13

Apple will showcase a 6‑inch square HomePad with facial recognition and a refreshed HomePod Mini at its October 13 product launch.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 30 Sep 2026 18:00:11 GMT

Apple is set to unveil a new smart‑home hub, dubbed the HomePad, and an updated HomePod Mini at an event on Oct. 13, Gizmodo reports citing Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

The HomePad is described as a 6‑inch square display that can sit on a countertop or be wall‑mounted. Gurman’s sources say the device will feature facial recognition to personalize information, a thin metal arm for positioning, and a rounded, button‑less design comparable in thickness to an iPhone. Core apps such as Calendar, Messages, Photos, FaceTime, Notes, Reminders, Music and Podcasts are expected to be pre‑installed, with iOS‑style app arrangement.

Apple also plans to refresh its HomePod Mini, marking the first major update to the speaker since 2020.

Key facts

Apple will announce the HomePad and a HomePod Mini update on Oct. 13 (gizmodo.com)
The HomePad is a 6‑inch square display that can be wall‑mounted or placed on a countertop (gizmodo.com)
Facial recognition is a planned feature for user personalization (gizmodo.com)
Pre‑installed apps will include Calendar, Messages, Photos, FaceTime, Notes, Reminders, Music and Podcasts (gizmodo.com)
The HomePad will have a rounded, button‑less design and be as thick as an iPhone (gizmodo.com)