Apple reportedly wants to turn the iPad into a smart display with a new dock

According to a report by Mark Gurman, Apple is working on a dock that will allow the iPad to be used as a smart display and speaker. As soon as next year, the company will convert the iPad into a device that can be set atop a counter or nightstand, according to a report.

Users can place their Fire tablets into a charging dock to prop them up like a smart display, similar to what Amazon does with its other products. The docking accessory is supposed to be used as a magnetic charging station and speaker. The Home app will let you control your smart home through the Home app, as well as interact with the Google Assistant.

Gurman suggests that an iPad docking station could allow users to make calls and control smart home devices. Gurman says that the company is working on an updated version of the HomePod that could include an S8 chip and multitouch capabilities. Gurman reported last year that Apple is working on a camera-equipped Apple TV and smart speaker device.

We don't expect the docking station yet, but Apple is expected to launch the iPad Pro before the end of the month.

Join the conversation3 / 3 New