Apple has officially announced an event on October 13 under the slogan “Welcome Home.” The company did not reveal the list of new products, but the name of the presentation points to a focus on the smart home. According to rumors, the main announcement will be a new home hub — a device with a screen, speaker, and home control center functions.

In addition to the hub, Apple may unveil updated Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini models. An iPad mini with an OLED display is also mentioned among the possible new products.

The home hub will combine the functions of the iPad and HomePod

The new device is expected to become a separate product category for Apple and combine the capabilities of a smart display and a smart speaker. According to preliminary information, it will feature a square screen measuring about six inches diagonally and support Siri.

The hub will be able to control compatible smart home devices, play videos, show news, weather forecasts, and calendars, and also support FaceTime video calls. The expected price is around $350.

Apple is reportedly preparing two versions of the device: a desktop model and a wall-mounted one. The desktop version may get a base resembling the stand of the original iMac G4. The camera and presence sensor, according to rumors, will allow it to identify the user standing in front of the screen and automatically display a personalized interface.

The company expects that such devices will be used in different rooms of the home, becoming a convenient access point to smart home functions.

HomePod mini and Apple TV may also be updated

The next version of the HomePod mini is expected to get new color options, a more powerful S-series processor, and the N1 networking chip. The latter should improve Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

Apple TV 4K is expected to receive a more substantial hardware upgrade. The device may switch to the A19 or A19 Pro processor, get more RAM, and the N1 networking chip. Rumors also point to the arrival of a new Siri Remote.

So far, these specifications have not been confirmed by Apple, so they should be considered preliminary.

An OLED display may also appear in the iPad mini

Another potential new product is an updated iPad mini. It is rumored to feature an OLED screen, a more powerful processor, and improved water resistance.

However, it is still unknown whether the tablet will be part of the October 13 event program or be unveiled later. Apple also has not clarified the format of the presentation: the company may hold a full-scale event or announce the new devices through press releases.

Thus, for now, only the date of the announcements has been officially confirmed. The home hub and the other devices remain expected new products, with information about them based on preliminary leaks.