The long-rumored tablet device we've dubbed Home Hub is imminent, and code found in an internal build of iOS 26 suggests it and another home device are being readied for release.
The Home Hub codename first appeared in September 2024, and information around the device began trickling out more regularly since. There's also been rumors of Apple entering the smart camera market, but details there are still sparse.
It seems Macworld has got its hands on some internal build of a future version of iOS 26, which has so far provided a bit of detail about the upcoming Studio Display and soon-to-be updated iPad models. The next revelation found in the code reveals some tidbits about the Apple Home Hub and at least one of its smart cameras.
There's nothing particularly new that AppleInsider hasn't covered about the device other than it being present in the code. They discovered references to J490, which has been previously attached to the Home Hub as its codename.
A separate report from Macworld shared that Apple Intelligence would come to the Home Hub, which makes sense given it would have an A18 processor. The device is also expected to have a camera and use Face ID for authentication.
There are also references to an unknown device codenamed J229, but the code identifies it as having multiple sensors, the ability to detect alarm sounds, and can capture images. It stands to reason that this is one of Apple's two upcoming smart cameras.
Apple's home strategy
Many rumors point to Apple having a big push around Apple Home in 2026. This is reportedly due to an internal strategy shift that occurred after abandoning the Apple Car.
Apple could enter the smart camera market in 2026
Apple previously apparently wanted a strategy outside of its core products like iPhone and Mac to target wearables, vehicles, and the home. That has changed to wearables, robotics, and a greater emphasis on home.
The Home Hub was due in 2025 alongside a significant Siri revision, but the AI upgrades were delayed, so the Home Hub was pushed back too. Since the new LLM-backed Siri is expected in early 2026, it seems likely Apple will finally launch the Home Hub as well.
There are two Apple smart cameras that have been rumored, and both could arrive in 2026. There is a standard smart camera and a doorbell camera with facial recognition and Face ID.
Either one of these could be the one referenced by the codename J229.
Apple is set to have a busy spring with a renewed AI push and a range of smart home updates. These new products could help solidify Apple's position in artificial intelligence by providing physical objects that bring unique features to its burgeoning AI and smart home ecosystems.
