Apple’s Smart Home Hub to Display iPhone Widgets: Revolutionizing Device Integration!

The latest RC (Release Candidate) version of macOS 26.7, which was distributed to developers earlier this week, has revealed several references to yet-to-be-announced Apple products, including a home automation hub expected to debut later this year. Code snippets indicate the existence of two models, codenamed J490 and J491. The J490 is anticipated to feature a display mounted on a base with an integrated speaker, while the J491 might be designed to attach magnetically to a wall mount.

Deeper Exploration into macOS 26.7 Details

Digging further into the macOS 26.7 system, MacRumors discovered mentions of a “Widget Gallery” within a file named “PosterKit-J490.” PosterKit represents the framework Apple uses for home screen customization, and the codename J490 clearly points to the device in question. According to the analyzed code, “Widgets installed on a linked iPhone will be suggested on the home hub, in the same way that iPhone widgets are available on Mac without needing a separate app installed. It appears that third-party app widgets might be supported, in addition to Apple’s own app widgets. The iPhone app widgets displayed on the home automation center will mirror information from the iPhone.”

Upcoming Apple Event and Product Details

All the comprehensive details are likely to be unveiled at the anticipated Apple Event, expected on either September 8 or 9. The device is rumored to sport a 7-inch square display and would include a recent chip to support Apple Intelligence. It will operate on a new system named homeOS, which is believed to be a derivative of tvOS. The interface is said to draw inspiration from both watchOS and iOS, featuring an icon grid, widgets, and applications. Last year’s rumors suggested a price point around $350, but this could increase due to the recent memory crisis.