The latest rumors are that the new Apple TV will have a built-in microphone, while the upgraded remote will get a speaker. The mic would let users control the set-top box using Siri without having to speak into the remote or a connected HomePod device. That could also let the Apple TV serve as a simple smart home hub - controlling thermostats and locking doors - without the need to hunt for the remote.

If you happen to misplace the remote, the new integrated speaker should make it easier to track down. It could play an audio alert to guide you to its location, whether it got carelessly kicked under the couch or a child mischievously hid it …

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We are quickly coming up on Apple's "Welcome Home" launch event, where we expect a host of smart home-related announcements. We are expecting refreshes to Apple TV and HomePod Mini, as well as a brand new smart home hub. We could also see the debut of a new platform called homeOS, and some partner devices from LG.

What we probably won't be seeing is the long-rumored touchscreen MacBook, which Cupertino whisperer Mark Gurman says will debut later this month.

"Welcome Home" will officially kick off in New York on October 13th at 9AM ET. Here's more about what to expect.

A proper smart home hub

Until now, Apple has primarily relied on the …

Read the full story at The Verge.