Apple has reportedly scaled back features for its upcoming smart home hub to expedite its release. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggests that initially bolder features have been removed, potentially for future iterations. The launch, already delayed due to postponed personalized Siri features, is now anticipated at best by year's end. The device, described as a smaller, cheaper iPad-like hub with a screen, will control appliances and offer FaceTime capabilities. While Apple hasn't confirmed the device's existence, its eventual release is considered a significant step into the smart home market.

Prepared by Jonathan Pierce and reviewed by editorial team.