Apple to Redesign Store 'Avenues' Area Ahead of New HomePod Hub Launch

Apple is set to remodel the peripheral "Avenues" zones in its retail locations to accommodate a forthcoming HomePod smart hub, Bloomberg technology reporter Mark Gurman said. The Avenues, which currently display accessories such as Beats headphones, Apple TVs and assorted third-party items, will be reconfigured to highlight the new device, which is expected to feature a 7-inch screen running a mobile-style operating system and to integrate with smart home appliances and doorbell cameras. Gurman noted that existing store layouts are not well suited for demonstrating such a product, prompting the redesign. The updated area is intended to provide an interactive experience that introduces shoppers to the hub’s capabilities, including potential facial-recognition-based user profiles.