Apple is reportedly exploring a return to the television market, with plans linked to its upcoming smart home initiatives. The news comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, highlighting Apple’s renewed interest in home entertainment.
The company’s strategy begins with a smart home command center. This device would feature a 6-inch display, similar to a compact iPad, with FaceTime capabilities and speakers. Available in black or white, it’s designed for wall mounting or tabletop use.
The hub would offer an adaptive interface that responds to user proximity. It could serve as both a home automation controller and an intercom system, showing Apple’s commitment to integrated home technology.
If this smart home hub succeeds, Apple might proceed with developing its own television set. This recalls the much-rumored “iTV” project from the early 2010s that never materialized despite Steve Jobs’ enthusiasm.
Apple maintains a presence in home entertainment through Apple TV boxes and Apple TV+ streaming service, which has approximately 25 million subscribers.
However, the television market presents familiar challenges. These include low profit margins and slow replacement cycles, issues that previously deterred Apple from entering this market.