Sorry, Apple, but the iPhone Duo Wasn’t the Smart Display I’m Waiting For

Apple's recent "Surprise and Shine" event showcased numerous AI applications, particularly highlighting the iPhone and the upcoming foldable iPhone Duo as personal hubs for AI integration. However, the eagerly anticipated announcement of a smart home display was notably absent. This omission left smart home enthusiasts disappointed, especially after numerous reports from 2026 suggested that Apple was finally ready to unveil such a device.

The rumors mentioned a smart home display similar to Amazon Echo Shows, featuring innovative design elements and advanced features like facial recognition. Installation options were also rumored, including wall mounting and a pivoting display for multi-user interaction. Despite early access to Siri AI throughout 2026 and Apple's mention of new Home features such as video descriptions for security cameras, the smart display seemed like a sure thing for this fall.

Yet, Apple did not even mention the home display during the event, nor did the Apple Home app receive any screen time. The closest Apple product to a smart display was the iPhone Duo, which can be tented to resemble a display but lacks the independence and affordability of traditional smart displays. Priced at $1,999, the Duo is significantly more expensive than existing smart displays and falls short in functionality, particularly in serving as a versatile secondary screen or a room-filling audio center.

Additionally, Siri AI does not currently support displaying conversations, food orders, or video responses like Alexa Plus does. Apple may be waiting to ensure the performance and popularity of the Duo before expanding into smart displays, and there may be concerns about pricing, given the RAMageddon trend and the high costs associated with competitor models.

Apple's hesitancy to enter the AI market could also pose risks, as established competitors like Amazon and Google have already established a strong foothold in smart home devices. However, Apple may have other plans for a smart display, possibly unveiling it alongside other announcements like the iPad mini in October. Despite these uncertainties, the author expresses disappointment and anticipation for a future Apple smart display that could revolutionize home technology with seamless integration, improved FaceTime capabilities, and a more cohesive user experience across Apple devices.