On this episode of the HomeKit Insider Podcast, your hosts break down the latest Apple smart home news and several leaked devices ahead of CES 2025.
Apple continues its work on new smart home devices with several rumors coming out this week. This includes work on its new custom in-house wireless chips.
They’re reported to launch in the first devices in 2025, including Apple’s new smart home devices. Creating these chips themselves may result in better device-to-device communication, essential for smart homes.
There was also rumblings of Apple’s new display-laden HomePod having the LCD panel created in China, beating out several South Korean firms. They’re reported $10-$15 cheaper, important for a low-volume item.
We expect to see several new smart home devices in 2025 from Apple, including a full-sized HomePod, an updated HomePod mini, a new Apple TV, and a smart display.
Outside of Apple rumors, we also got the release of a new TP-Link smart outlet. The Tapo P210M is an in-wall outlet that can be controlled via Matter and also has energy monitoring in the Tapo app.
Lastly, we got several leaked Aqara products that will likely make their unveiling during CES 2025. There’s a new presence sensor, in-wall display, light bulbs, and a new camera.
The Aqara G5 camera is probably the most exciting, offering both USB-C or POE power options, full-color night vision, and HomeKit Secure Video. Finally, Aqara is also promising Matter support when that is finalized.
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