Apple’s WWDC 2025 keynote was jam-packed with announcements spanning its entire product lineup. Whether it was the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Vision Pro, or Apple TV, there was something new and exciting for fans of every device.
A revamped user interface is set to roll out across all Apple platforms, and new features were introduced in abundance. It truly felt like every corner of Apple’s ecosystem had its moment.
But as I sat watching the 90-minute presentation, one lingering thought kept coming back: what happened to the smart home? Is anyone at Apple still paying attention?
In past WWDC events, Apple highlighted HomeKit, discussed smart home integration, and even revealed the original HomePod back in 2017. Yet this year, despite CarPlay getting stage time, Apple stayed completely silent on the smart home front.
I didn’t exactly expect Apple to dedicate an entire segment of the event to it, but there were plenty of moments where smart home integration could’ve been highlighted as the company introduced the latest versions of iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, macOS, tvOS, and visionOS.
How are these platforms—and the devices they power—supposed to interact with my smart lights, video doorbell, thermostat, or security cameras? Where does Apple Intelligence fit into the smart home experience to actually make my life easier?
None of these questions were addressed. In fact, there was no indication that Apple is even thinking about them. And maybe that’s intentional.
Pushed to the Background
Apple’s HomePod and HomePod mini haven’t seen the same widespread success as Amazon’s Echo or Google’s Nest devices.
While Amazon and Google offer affordable smart speakers—alongside premium options—and virtual assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant that are generally more capable, Apple’s approach is different. Its speakers cost more, and Siri, by comparison, often falls short.
Many people buy budget-friendly devices like the Echo Dot or Nest Mini for family members as a simple introduction to smart home tech. Apple’s devices haven’t gained that kind of traction.
There was speculation leading up to WWDC that Apple might unveil a HomePod with a display, aimed at competing with products like the Echo Show 10 or Nest Hub Max. But that announcement never came.
If Apple still has plans for smart home hardware, WWDC 2025 would’ve been the ideal stage to breathe new life into its lineup.
A seamless fusion of iOS 26 and tvOS 26 could pave the way for a powerful homeOS—possibly designed to run on the long-rumored smart display—and set the foundation for future devices.
But here we are, with no announcements and even fewer answers. Maybe Apple has realized the demand just isn’t there, or maybe it knows it’s fallen too far behind rivals to catch up.
Still, I haven’t given up completely. For any Apple smart speaker to disrupt the Google-Amazon grip on the market, Siri needs a serious upgrade.
We’re all still waiting on those promising Siri improvements teased at last year’s WWDC. At this year’s event, Craig Federighi—Apple’s SVP of Software Engineering—hinted we’d get more details sometime within the next year.
In an interview, Craig clarified that “within the next year” likely points to early 2026, not the tail end of 2025.
Could that mean a refreshed Siri will debut alongside a new wave of HomePods and smart displays? One can only hope.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the key detail Apple overlooked at WWDC 2025?
Apple failed to address any major updates or new hardware related to its smart home ecosystem, including the long-rumored smart display and potential new HomePod devices.
Why is this omission important?
The smart home market is growing rapidly, with competitors like Google and Amazon continuing to dominate. Apple’s silence signals a possible lack of commitment or delay in catching up.
Was there any mention of HomeKit or smart home features?
While there were minor software enhancements in iOS and tvOS that indirectly benefit smart home setups, there was no dedicated focus or spotlight on HomeKit or new HomePod hardware.
Did Apple unveil a new homeOS?
No, despite speculation that a combined iOS 26 and tvOS 26 experience could evolve into a dedicated homeOS, Apple made no such announcement at WWDC 2025.
Has Apple completely abandoned smart home ambitions?
Not necessarily. Apple may be delaying its smart home push, or choosing to reveal it at a later event. However, the absence at WWDC raised concerns about its priorities.
What about Siri—was there any progress?
Although Siri updates were anticipated, the major AI-driven Siri overhaul did not arrive. Apple mentioned that more information will come in early 2026, prolonging the wait.
How does Apple’s position compare to Google and Amazon in the smart home space?
Apple remains a distant third. Both Google and Amazon have robust ecosystems with smart displays, voice assistants, and integrations—areas where Apple is notably lagging.
What are users expecting from Apple in smart home tech?
Fans are looking for a smart display, improved Siri integration, a more unified homeOS, and better compatibility across smart devices—all of which were missing from WWDC.
Could new smart home products still launch later in 2025?
It’s possible. Apple often holds fall events where it unveils new hardware. But the lack of a tease or roadmap at WWDC makes that uncertain.
How did Apple’s software announcements hint at future home integration?
Some updates in iOS 26 and tvOS 26 could support future smart home functions, but without context or hardware, it remains speculation.
Is Siri ready to power a competitive smart speaker or display?
Not yet. Siri still lags behind Google Assistant and Alexa in terms of responsiveness, contextual understanding, and smart home command handling.
Should Apple users be concerned about the company’s smart home strategy?
If you’re heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, it’s reasonable to feel frustrated or cautious. Until Apple shows a clear smart home roadmap, expectations should be tempered.
Conclusion:
Apple’s decision to overlook its smart home strategy at WWDC 2025 leaves a noticeable gap in an otherwise forward-looking event. While the company showcased exciting software innovations and teased future advancements—especially with Siri—the absence of any mention of homeOS, new HomePod hardware, or a dedicated smart display felt like a missed opportunity. As competitors continue to push ahead in the smart home space, Apple’s silence raises questions about whether it’s recalibrating, delaying, or simply deprioritizing this market. For now, loyal users are left waiting—and wondering—if Apple’s smart home vision is still alive or slowly fading into the background.
