Why Apple’s Wall-Mounted Smart Display is Set to Succeed

A recent report from Bloomberg indicated that Apple is developing a wall-mounted smart display panel designed to serve as “a control hub for the home” with a potential launch as soon as March next year.

Back in 2019, I tested a similar idea by wall-mounting an old iPad Air as a dedicated smart home control panel, and the feedback was compelling enough to suggest that Apple’s upcoming device could be a hit …

Apple’s Smart Display Panel

Earlier last year, we discovered some code referencing this device, although the specific form it would take was unclear. Insights from Bloomberg offered more clarity.

According to Bloomberg, the panel will feature a square display that is approximately 6 inches across, comparable to the width of two iPhones placed side by side, surrounded by a thick bezel.

Additionally, it is said to include a central camera at the top, a rechargeable built-in battery, and speakers. Its design is intended for wall mounting, resembling a “classic home-security panel,” and will be available in silver and black.

My iPad Smart Home Control Panel

I repurposed an old iPad Air, utilizing a magnetic mounting system to attach it securely to the end of a bookshelf located centrally in my home. A Lightning cable was routed discreetly behind the bookshelf to keep any cables out of sight.

I configured the iPad to prevent it from going to sleep: Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock > Never, and ensured the Home app’s Favorites displayed all Scenes and essential devices on one screen.

Then, I used Guided Access to lock the device into the Home app. Settings > General > Scroll down to Accessibility > Guided Access > Turn On. This allows you to set a passcode (which I kept the same as the iPad). Open the Home app and triple-click the Home button to lock it in place. To exit, you simply triple-click again and enter the passcode.

Considering the iPad Air was valued at around $150 at that time, the entire setup cost roughly $180.

Positive Reactions from Visitors

In my case, I primarily rely on automations and Siri for smart home management. Any controllable device is automated via timers, events (like sunset or the last person leaving), and motion sensors. To activate a device or a scene, I simply issue a command to Siri, and the nearest HomePod responds accordingly.

While friends who aren’t tech-savvy appreciate the automations (like kitchen lights turning on when entering and shutting off after a period of inactivity), they often find Siri commands seem complex or difficult to remember.

However, virtually everyone who has experienced the iPad control panel found it extremely intuitive. It only takes about 30 seconds to demonstrate how to use a scene, and friends quickly come around to the idea.

Even though it requires physically approaching the panel for control (though it’s easily detachable), non-techie friends still find it straightforward and sensible.

This control panel has transformed smart home technology from something daunting and exclusive into an accessible and appealing option. I believe that Apple’s forthcoming device will achieve a similar effect.

Photo: DMN