All recent reporting indicates Apple is ready to launch its first smart display, a device that marries the audio and AI assistant capabilities of a HomePod with a display that can showcase photos, run apps and act as a dedicated FaceTime device.

reports Apple's so-called "HomePad" will feature a 6-inch square display that will be available attached to a round, HomePod mini-style speaker or a smaller audio set-up that can be mounted alongside the display on a wall. The primary method for interacting with the HomePad is Siri AI, but the device's new tvOS-based "homeOS" will also support touchscreen interactions and include some of the customizable interface elements of the Apple Watch and the iPhone's StandBy mode. The smart display will also be able to run iPadOS-style apps, according to , which opens up the possibility for video streaming and other functionality if developers decide to support it.

Besides acting as a showcase for Siri AI's ability to interact with Apple's HomeKit platform, Apple reportedly also plans for the device to be able to detect who's looking at it and adjust its interface and apps accordingly, though it apparently won't rely on Apple's Face ID technology from the iPhone to make that happen. The feature could let the HomePad switch which calendar or notifications it displays depending on who's looking at the screen — personalization features few other Apple devices offer.

Previous reports suggested Apple was working on its own privacy-focused cameras as part of its smart home lineup, but now reports they might not be sold under Apple's name. The company is reportedly collaborating with LG Electronics to create a series of smart locks, doorbells, thermostats and temperature sensors. The devices will work with Apple's smart home ecosystem but will apparently be manufactured, sold and supported by LG. A later leak suggested similar third-party devices will also come from Schneider Electric, which is apparently making a thermostat for the launch.

The "second-party" partnership includes accessories from Schneider:
• Schneider Home Smart Thermostat
• Schneider Electric Temperature/Humidity Sensor

Only the Thermostat shows (placeholder) setup assets. Its setup configuration mentions Proximity Settings.

In total, iOS... https://t.co/8w4fUQ4WpK

This doesn't necessarily preclude Apple from releasing its own versions of these devices down the line, but it does suggest that Apple won't make the first accessories designed for this new era of HomeKit. Considering the threat the company's scale and reach poses to other smart home product makers, it's probably the right move to play nice.