Apple might go from smartphone to smart home as it may release a charging dock for the iPad. As a result, it may turn into a control hub for other smart devices.
The news comes from Apple insider Mark Gurman, two days after Google announced a Charging Speaker dock for the Pixel tablet.
The Google accessory will make the Pixel look like a Google Nest Hub device. The connection does not change the Android UI. Consequently, we might see a similar feature for the Apple counterpart.
More details about the iPad dock
Photo Credit: forums.macrumors.com
Gurman discussed what he knew about the product in his Power On newsletter. He said, “I reported last year that Apple is exploring a stand-alone device that combines an iPad with a speaker hub.”
“The idea is to offer something that users can place on a kitchen counter, in the living room or on their nightstand.”
“But Apple also has worked on an iPad docking accessory that it could sell separately and would accomplish much of the same thing.”
Smart home devices are becoming more popular nowadays. For example, more people are installing the Google Nest Doorbell and WiFi Pro in their homes.
These gadgets usually have a large screen that lets you control parts of your smart home system. For example, it may let you view your video camera.
Yet, Apple has not been keeping up with its competitors. It released a HomePod to rival HDMI sticks from Amazon, Google, and Roku. Sadly, the company discontinued it in 2021.
Mark Gurman previously stated that a new HomePod is in the works. He said it might replace the discontinued model.
It would probably keep the same design. However, the new HomePod might have a better display and performance.
Gurman also believes Apple is working on a new Apple TV gadget with a smart speaker and a FaceTime camera. The latter would enable video calls similar to Meta’s Portal TV device.
Perhaps the iPad dock may enter the smart home market first. It may start Apple’s next attempt to cover a segment of that trend.
Conclusion
Tech companies are preparing for Web 3.0, the next iteration of the internet. It would improve connection speed and stability and make an “Internet of Things” possible.
More of our devices will link to the internet and become part of it. In response, Apple may release an iPad dock to enter the smart home market.
Web3 and IoT are some of the emerging technologies that will transform our lives soon. Keep up with the latest trends by following Inquirer Tech.