Apple to expand smart-home lineup, taking on Amazon and Google

Earlier Wednesday, Apple rolled out the new HomePod speaker. The US$299 (RM1,292) device is revamped version of the original, running the same chip as last year’s Apple Watch. — Apple

Apple Inc is working on a slate of devices aimed at challenging Amazon.com Inc and Google in the smart-home market, including new displays and a faster TV set-top box, after relaunching its larger HomePod speaker.

The push into smart displays will start with a tablet product – essentially a low-end iPad – that can control things like thermostats and lights, show video and handle FaceTime chats, people with knowledge of the plans said. The product could be mounted on walls or elsewhere using magnetic fasteners, positioning it as more of a home gadget than a regular iPad.