Apple is considered one of the world's leading technology companies. However, in the smart home sector, the company acted more cautiously than its competitors for a long time. New information now reveals that Apple was significantly further along internally than its initial products suggested.
While Amazon and Google were early adopters of smart home devices, Apple initially pursued a more cautious strategy. A Bloomberg report now provides insight into internal decisions and reveals the role played by hardware chief John Ternus.
HomePod: Camera was originally planned
Even before the HomePod was unveiled in 2017, Apple was considering equipping the device with a camera and additional sensors, according to a report by Mark Gurman.
These features would have made the HomePod significantly more versatile, for example through expanded smart home and security functions.
Why Apple refrained from doing so
John Ternus, however, decided against these enhancements. The main reason was higher development costs. Instead, Apple focused on audio quality and a clearly defined concept for the HomePod.
Lagging behind in the smart home market
The report also shows that Ternus resisted major investments in smart home products around ten years ago. While Amazon and Google grew rapidly, Apple lagged behind. Later, Ternus partially accepted responsibility for this.
New strategy and HomePad
Apple is currently working on a relaunch of its smart home business. Several products are planned, including:
- An AI-powered smart home hub with facial recognition (J490)
- A safety sensor (J450)
- A robotic device (J595)
The focus is on a new hub, often called "HomePad", which is expected to be released in autumn 2026.
Apple's missed opportunity in the smart home market
Apple had many smart home ideas much earlier, but initially failed to implement them. With new products and a stronger focus on AI, the company now aims to catch up and expand its market position. (Image: Shutterstock / SJ_PHOTOS)
- Apple is working on the biggest iPhone redesign of its time
- iPhone Fold: This is how Apple is planning a more stable folding Display
- iPad with A18: Release, performance and new features
- Apple TV and HomePod mini are still waiting for Siri
- iPhone Fold: Release likely planned for December
- Are AirPods Max 2 just an interim step? Here's the story
- iPhone 19e: Will 120Hz finally come to the entry-level iPhone?
- MacBook Air: Apple currently has no plans for a touchscreen
- MacBook Neo 2: Apple reportedly plans to focus on performance
- iOS 27 is expected to significantly improve Siri, AI, and Liquid Glass
- iPhone Fold: Apple is about to start important production
- iPhone Fold: New report mentions the iPhone Ultra
- iPhone Fold: New leaks about storage, RAM and price
- iPhone Fold offers multitasking and iPad-like navigation.
- MacBook Neo & Co.: This is what Apple is planning for upcoming devices
- iPhone 18 Pro: Apple apparently has no plans for a price increase
- iPhone 18 Pro: Will Dynamic Island remain unchanged after all?
- iPhone 18 Pro Max: Will Apple's new model be thicker?
- Apple Home Hub: Leak reveals watchOS interface & MagSafe
- iPhone Fold: Apple's initial plan was completely different
