Why Apple’s next computer should be for the smart home

<figure> <img alt="The Mac Studio seen from above on a pink background." data-caption="An Apple Home computer could combine a Wi-Fi router, an AI-powered smart home hub, and local storage into a single device. | Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge" data-portal-copyright="Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/chorus/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24732441/236707_Mac_Studio_AKrales_0064.jpg?quality=90&#038;strip=all&#038;crop=0,0,100,100" /> <figcaption> An Apple Home computer could combine a Wi-Fi router, an AI-powered smart home hub, and local storage into a single device. | Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge </figcaption> </figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">John Ternus didn't mention Apple Home once during his <a href="https://www.theverge.com/tech/991273/john-ternus-first-apple-product-launch-as-ceo">first keynote as Apple CEO</a>. But he did open by describing an "intelligent personal hub" that prioritizes local processing, protects your privacy, and integrates with all your other devices, apps, and services. While Ternus was talking about the iPhone - not a new smart home device - what he spelled out is exactly what I want to see Apple make: an intelligent <em>home</em> hub, a computer for your home.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Rumors suggest Apple's <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/7/16/24195063/apple-smart-display-rumors-homepod-ipad">first smart home hub with a screen</a> is imminent. While that's long overdue, it's likely to be more interface than infrastructure, a device that can run your home locally but s …</p> <p><a href="https://www.theverge.com/tech/993892/apples-next-computer-smart-home-hub-airport-router">Read the full story at The Verge.</a></p>