Apple is developing a new operating system: What is known and where it will be used

Apple is working on a new operating system under the codename Charismatic, which will serve as the foundation for future smart home devices. According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the system will combine elements of tvOS and watchOS and will debut in 2026 on a smart home hub, followed in 2027 by Apple’s desktop robot. Here’s what is known about the new OS and how it will change the company’s ecosystem.

What is Charismatic?

Charismatic is believed to be the long-discussed homeOS, rumors of which have circulated since 2021. It is being developed to control smart home devices and includes the following key features:

• Interface: The system borrows elements from tvOS (used in Apple TV) and watchOS (for Apple Watch). A hexagonal app grid like on the Apple Watch is expected, along with support for widgets and watch faces for personalization.
• Multi-user mode: Devices running Charismatic will be able to recognize users through the front-facing camera using technology similar to Face ID and automatically adapt the interface, apps, and data to their preferences.
• Controls: The main method of interaction will be voice commands through an improved Siri, integrated with Apple Intelligence. Touch control will also remain for convenience.

Devices Powered by Charismatic

Apple plans to implement the new OS in two key devices:

• Smart Home Hub (2026): A device with the codename J490, resembling a HomePod with a display, will compete with Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub. It will support smart home management, video calls, music playback, and apps such as Calendar, Music, Camera, Reminders, and Notes.
• Desktop Robot (2027): Codename J595. This iPad-like device on a movable arm will be capable of following the user and acting as a virtual companion. Siri, enhanced with AI capabilities, will be able to make recommendations, hold conversations, and manage tasks.

Both devices are aimed at the smart home segment, where Apple is striving to strengthen its position against competitors such as Amazon and Google.

Advantages and Capabilities

Charismatic is being developed with flexibility and family use in mind:

• Personalization: Multi-user support will allow each family member to have their own interface and settings.
• Integration with the ecosystem: The OS will be closely tied to other Apple products through HomeKit, iCloud, and Apple Intelligence, ensuring seamless interaction.
• Versatility: Support for apps like Calendar and Notes makes the system suitable for both personal and shared use cases—from planning the day to managing smart lighting or security cameras.

Voice control via Siri will be the key feature, but a touch interface will provide additional convenience, especially for devices with displays.

Context and Significance

Apple has long been developing its smart home ecosystem, starting with the HomePod and HomeKit. However, the lack of a specialized OS for smart devices has limited the company’s capabilities in this sector. Charismatic is designed to fill this gap by combining proven elements of tvOS (optimized for large screens) and watchOS (ideal for compact interfaces).

Leaks about homeOS date back to 2021, when Apple job postings mentioned the system, and code references were found in tvOS 14.5.

The launch of Charismatic underscores Apple’s strategic focus on artificial intelligence and the smart home. Devices running the new OS—such as the home hub and robot—will be part of a broader lineup, which is expected to include security cameras and updated HomePod mini models, as previously reported by MacRumors and Bloomberg.

In Short…

Apple is preparing a new operating system called Charismatic, which will serve as the foundation for a smart home hub in 2026 and a desktop robot in 2027. The system will combine elements of tvOS and watchOS, introduce a hexagonal interface, widgets, multi-user mode, and Siri-powered controls. Charismatic will strengthen Apple’s position in the smart home sector, making its devices more personalized and versatile. This development, reported by Mark Gurman in August 2025, highlights Apple’s ambitions in AI and automation, opening a new chapter in its ecosystem.