New tvOS 18 code hints at Apple's much rumored smart home hub

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Is chat coming to your TV or smart home?

Apple tvOS 18 new features
(Image credit: Apple)

Apple recently released the beta version of tvOS 18.4 and while it only adds a couple of new features including a plus button to add content from the top carousel to your watchlist, it's what's buried in the code that's piqued our interest.

Discovered by Macrumors, the latest tvOS update features a ChatKit framework, an interesting discovery since neither the Apple TV streaming box nor the HomePod features a Messages app.

What is the Apple smart home hub

A photo of an iPad running Apple Home alongside an Apple HomePod mini and an Apple TV

(Image credit: Future)

Apple is expected to release a third-generation HomePod at some point this year, though rumors point to a device that will look wildly different from the HomePod you're used to seeing.

It could feature a touchscreen, similar to the Amazon Echo Hub and the Google Pixel Tablet. This display would enable it to support video calls, photos, music controls and listening and smart home management.

The display should be iPad-esque and could come on a robotic arm. It might also feature sensors for detecting people in front of the display or sensing the temperature.

We've heard disparate rumors that Apple's new hub will launch either this Spring or later in the fall. It's also unclear if it will get a full launch like the iPhone or iPads or an online only launch like the new M4 MacBook Air.

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Scott Younker
Scott Younker
West Coast Reporter

Scott Younker is the West Coast Reporter at Tom’s Guide. He covers all the lastest tech news. He’s been involved in tech since 2011 at various outlets and is on an ongoing hunt to build the easiest to use home media system. When not writing about the latest devices, you are more than welcome to discuss board games or disc golf with him. He also handles all the Connections coverage on Tom's Guide and has been playing the addictive NYT game since it released.

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