Apple expected to host October 13 event unveiling new smart home hub, HomePod mini 2 and Apple TV 4K

Apple is preparing an October 13 event that is expected to introduce a new smart home hub, a second-generation HomePod mini and an updated Apple TV 4K, Bloomberg reported. The date matches a speculation by Daring Fireball’s John Gruber, who suggested Apple would distribute iPhone Duo review units to selected journalists in person.

"If this is coming, it has to be unveiled with a keynote video and some sort of media event with hands-on demos," Gruber said, noting that an all-new device would likely require a live presentation rather than a simple newsroom post.

Industry observers anticipate an online-only keynote streamed on Apple’s website and YouTube, followed by a hands-on experience for media representatives, a format Apple used for its October 2023 announcements. During such sessions, reviewers typically receive devices a week before launch, allowing Apple to avoid shipping delays.

Apple usually confirms event details a week in advance, so an announcement about the October 13 schedule could appear soon.