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American tech giant Apple is working on an iPad dock that would allow the device to function as a smart display and speaker, The Verge reported.
As for the output, the update was shared by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who said the company plans to roll out the feature as early as next year, turning the iPad into an Amazon Echo Show-like device that you can place on a counter or nightstand.
Amazon already does something similar with its Fire tablets, as the company allows users to place the device in a charging dock to support it as a smart display.
Even Google last week announced a docking accessory for its upcoming Pixel tablet that doubles as a magnetic charging station as well as a speaker.
Once in place, the tablet will act as a Nest Hub Max, allowing you to control your smart home through the Home app as well as interact with Google Assistant, The Verge reported.
Gurman noted that an iPad docking station could work similarly, allowing users to make FaceTime calls and gain hands-free control of smart home devices.
The company is also working on other smart home devices, including an updated version of the HomePod, which Gurman said could have an updated display, S8 chip and multi-touch capabilities.
Last year, Gurman reported that Apple was also planning a combination Apple TV and smart speaker device equipped with a camera, which he believes is still in the works.
Meanwhile, Apple is set to launch the iPad Pro by the end of this month, which is rumored to come in 11-inch and 12.9-inch variants, as well as Apple’s own M2 chip, The Verge reports.
