Apple might launch an iPad-like smart home display next year.

Apple is gearing up for a new attempt at the smart home market, reportedly starting with a smart display that could launch next year. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, in his Power On newsletter, the display will feature a new operating system called homeOS, which is based on the Apple TV’s tvOS, similar to the software used by HomePods.

Gurman notes that the display will support Apple apps such as Calendar, Notes, and Home, and prototypes have been tested with magnetic wall-mounting. It will also feature Apple Intelligence, something current HomePods lack.

Rumors about this kind of device have circulated for a while, with designs ranging from a HomePod with a screen to a display on a robotic arm that follows users during video calls. Recently, rumors have become more credible.

Another rumor suggested an upcoming “HomeAccessory” device, potentially square-shaped, which might allow users to control it with hand gestures. MacRumors has also found code references to this device and homeOS.

This smart display seems like a more practical concept than the robotic screen idea, and could be more affordable and easier to use than dedicating an iPad as a smart home controller, which hasn’t been an ideal experience. The launch may not be too far off.