Apple plans second iMac G4-like smart home device

Apple's rumored smart home display could arrive in two forms, with the robot arm version joined by another with an iMac-style base.

Rumors throughout 2024 has put forward the idea that Apple is working on more smart home devices, to expand its ecosystem's footprint. While rumors have previously discussed a robot arm, it seems there may be another device in development.

In Sunday's Bloomberg newsletter, Apple is reportedly coming up with a second version. A relatively small device, it apparently has a square display the size of two iPhones side by side.

Throwing back to an earlier product design, the device will apparently place the screen at an angle on a small base. This may be similar to the round base of the iMac G4, which may also incorporate speakers and other electronics.

It will run a new operating system with some iPadOS style apps, so it could be used for general purposes. But the main intention is for it to be a smart home hub.

This new second device will be a much cheaper version than the rumored initial model. That involves a larger screen on a robotic arm, which would be better suited for media playback and video calls.

The robot arm version is expected to cost around $1,000, and probably has little chance of an introduction before 2026. Pricing and scheduling of the cheaper iMac G4-style product was not reported.

14 Comments

JP144 8 comments · New User

About 3 weeks ago

If this “mini G4” is basically Apple’s new HomePod speaker + Screen + Apple Intelligence then I’m in. Sad though that we won’t see it until 2026. Sad too that it will likely cost $1000. It really needs to be here spring 2025 and cost half that.

DAalseth 3033 comments · 6 Years

I have no interest in a smart speaker/display nor any AI home device. But I would love seeing the G4 iMac concept revived. It was a brilliant design.

AppleZulu 2176 comments · 8 Years

There’s a lot of speculation around all this, but there’s a basic use case that makes sense for something in the smart home space.

There’s a need for convenient control of all the emerging smart home things. You can do it with your iPhone, iPad, and Mac, but home is the one place where we’re most likely to set these devices aside and be a room or more away from any of them, negating the convenience of a smart home.

HomePods and HP minis distributed within earshot throughout the house help with this, but only for voice commands. That leaves the scenario where screen-based interaction might be desirable when you’ve left your portable devices in another part of the house.

That creates the opportunity for a screen-based device, with one or two in key locations in a home. It can be functionally limited, as compared to iPhones or iPads, meant for short interactions and quick information.

I don’t know about the whole robot arm thing. That seems like a a rumor that has left out significant information.

slow n easy 400 comments · 9 Years

JP144 said:

If this “mini G4” is basically Apple’s new HomePod speaker + Screen + Apple Intelligence then I’m in. Sad though that we won’t see it until 2026. Sad too that it will likely cost $1000. It really needs to be here spring 2025 and cost half that.

The “mini G4” concept would be the cheaper new version, as I read the story. It’s the “robotic arm with larger screen” version that is rumored to cost $1000 and arrive in 2026. The photo of the iMac G4 was a little misleading because that is not exactly what it would look like. It would resemble the base, but the device would be way smaller and I don’t think it will look like the photo of the G4. I think the price will be $499 or less.