With the Apple HomePod being discontinued and the new second-generation Google Nest Hub on the horizon, Apple could find itself outmatched in smart home technology, as envisioned by 9to5Mac contributor Parker Ortolani in this sophisticated Apple Unless an exciting new product like the Smart Display Concept is introduced

This concept design combines aspects of the HomePod, iMac, iPad, and Apple TV into a smart display that is far more original and unique than the conservative Nest Hub

Apple believes that using existing parts will streamline development, and the Ortolani design is based on the same 102-inch screen as the standard iPad In contrast to the new Nest Hub's integrated base and speakers, it is mounted on a metal stand reminiscent of the iMac line In addition to aesthetics, this has the added benefit of allowing the screen angle to be adjusted Adjusting the angle of the screen without the use of a separate stand is almost unthinkable with today's smart displays

The Apple TV's tvOS will be repurposed to work on a small touch screen, including a screen saver that will be the background for the clock in Ortolani's concept It also includes a new dedicated "Home" app for controlling the smart home

Rather than using the audio hardware of the HomePod or HomePod mini, Ortolani suggests using the 129-inch iPad Pro speaker instead This could theoretically reproduce the tablet's relatively high audio quality without sacrificing the smart display's sleekness Nevertheless, the concept also includes the ability to connect a pair of HomePod mini speakers and use them as an extended stereo pair

"This product will absolutely be a very premium device It will probably be more expensive than the original HomePod," Ortolani wrote

"But customers will better appreciate the value they get from a device with a display, even at a higher price point"

I am not convinced that Apple can aim that high with pricing; the cost of the HomePod is part of the reason it did not become the mega-hit Apple is accustomed to, while the $99 HomePod mini continues to be sold off

But the concept design is definitely much more stylish than most smart displays, and it is possible that Apple is mulling over a new kind of product instead of trying again with the HomePod 2 So who knows Maybe we'll finally see this little iPad/iMac/HomePod hybrid in our kitchens and living rooms