Leaked references in an Apple macOS 26.7 beta point to a long-rumoured HomePod with a built-in screen, suggesting the device is nearing release after years of speculation. The find matters because it would mark Apple's first real attempt at an interactive smart-speaker display, potentially helping the HomePod line compete more directly with rivals such as Amazon's Echo Show devices.

The beta code references a "HomeAccessory" running a tvOS variant with a customisable home screen built around "Faces" and a "Face Gallery," similar in concept to Apple Watch faces, supporting widgets, Smart Stacks and iPhone-proximity detection to hide private information when the owner isn't nearby. It also hints at a wall-mountable version, a separate tabletop robot accessory codenamed J595 (not expected before 2027), and a modestly updated HomePod mini codenamed B525 likely to arrive only with new colour options.