Apple’s big smart home push is finally set for early 2026

It looks like Apple is finally ready to take the smart home seriously. A new report claims the company is launching its first smart displays in early 2026, marking a significant step forward in its smart home strategy. However, Apple faces a huge uphill battle against well-established rivals like Google and Amazon.

### Apple’s Smart Home Strategy: What’s New?

Apple’s efforts in the smart home space have always felt somewhat half-baked. The HomePod, while an excellent speaker, has never really been the centerpiece of a connected home ecosystem. That could change soon. According to recent reports, Apple plans to kick off a serious smart home push around March-April 2026.

This new initiative is expected to begin with the company’s first-ever smart display. There will reportedly be two versions: a standard speaker-base model (imagine an Apple-fied version of Google’s Nest Hub) and a wall-mounted variant. This product launch isn’t happening in isolation—it’s set to coincide with a major AI upgrade and a much-improved Siri experience.

Moreover, this smart display is just the starting point. Apple is said to be laying the foundation for a broader smart home security ecosystem that will include cameras and other devices later in the year.

### Why This Matters

Apple’s entry into the smart display market is a big deal because, quite frankly, it is very late to the game. Google, with its Nest Hub lineup, and Amazon, with its Echo Show series, have dominated the smart home space for nearly a decade.

These companies have not only sold hardware but have also created massive, sticky ecosystems deeply integrated into millions of homes worldwide. They have built what the report describes as “deep moats” around their platforms—making it difficult for newcomers to compete.

Apple’s biggest challenge isn’t just releasing a good product; it’s convincing users who are already comfortable with Alexa or Google Assistant to either switch or add another smart ecosystem to their homes. Given that Apple’s previous efforts have often felt siloed, this will be no easy task.

### Can Apple Catch Up?

With this upcoming launch, Apple is making a bold bet on the smart home future. But will their newly introduced devices and improved Siri be enough to surpass Amazon and Google? Only time will tell.

What do you think? Can Apple succeed in the smart home arena, or is it too little too late?

**Is Apple poised to surpass Amazon and Google in the smart home space?**

– Yes
– No

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
https://www.phonearena.com/news/apples-big-smart-home-push-is-finally-set-for-early-2026_id175393

Pompous speech 7 Little Words Answer

**Solving the Crossword Clue: Pompous Speech (10-Letter Answer)**

If you’re stuck on the crossword clue “Pompous speech” from the 7 Little Words puzzle dated November 2, 2025, we’re here to help you finish your puzzle. The answer you’re looking for is a 10-letter word that perfectly fits the clue.

### Understanding the Clue: Pompous Speech

– **Pompous** *(adjective)*: Puffed up with vanity; characterized by pomp, ceremony, and stately display.
– **Speech** *(noun)*: Communication by word of mouth; the mental faculty or power of vocal communication.

Combining these ideas, the answer relates to an inflated or overly formal type of verbal expression.

### Related 7 Little Words Answers

While focusing on “Pompous speech,” here are some other clues and their themes from the same puzzle that might help with your overall solving experience:

– Seismic disaster
– Like carbonated beverages
– In a tuneful manner
– Spacious and convenient
– Bank’s activity
– Verb for squirrel with a nut
– Be a traitor to
– Play “monkey see monkey do”
– Slangy old umbrella
– Emotional woe

We hope this guide helps you crack the crossword clue successfully! Keep solving and enjoy the challenge of 7 Little Words.
https://tryhardguides.com/pompous-speech-7-little-words/

140-year-old rug cleaner/retailer to leave Minneapolis for St. Paul

A beloved rug cleaner and retailer is packing up and heading to the other side of the Mississippi River after more than 100 years in Minneapolis. American Rug Laundry, a business that sells, cleans, and repairs rugs, will soon leave its sprawling East Lake Street building for a new address and showroom in St. Paul’s Macalester-Groveland neighborhood.

The relocation will bring the business closer to its St. Paul customers, which make up more than half of its clientele, and allow the business to operate more efficiently in the new building, said owner Sam Navab.

**A Historic Business with Deep Roots**

American Rug Laundry was founded in 1885 and is currently owned by Iranian immigrant brothers Sam and Far Navab. Passionate about rug conservancy, the brothers launched Navab Bros. Rug Co. in 1988, took over American Rug Laundry in 1999, and founded Legacy Looms, a custom rug company, in 2012.

**Leaving Minneapolis**

The beginning of the end for the historic storefront at 4222 E. Lake St. started about six years ago when the Navab brothers expanded the business to the suburbs. Just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, they moved their rug cleaning operations to a 14,000-square-foot warehouse at 8043 Lewis Road in Golden Valley.

As a result, only a fraction of the East Lake Street building’s 12,000 square feet is currently being used. “We really don’t have much use for it anymore,” said Sam Navab.

The historic building was sold last month for more than $1.6 million to Kamaro Omer Ali, according to real estate records filed with the state. When reached by phone, Ali told the Pioneer Press that the building’s future is undecided, but it could serve several uses including warehouse storage.

**The New St. Paul Store**

The new St. Paul storefront will be 4,500 square feet—smaller than the Minneapolis location—but will have more inventory, according to Sam Navab. The leased building will dedicate the front half to rug sales, while the back half will serve as storage and office space.

Although the footprint is smaller, the new shop will offer about 500 additional square feet of rug inventory compared to the Minneapolis location.

An opening date for the St. Paul store has not been set, as a remodel is currently underway to construct the showroom and office spaces.

Out of concern about confusing their customers, the brothers have not publicly revealed the new address, though they have hinted it will be near the corner of Fairview and St. Clair avenues.

“We have reservations about losing our Minneapolis customer base, but we are not going far,” said Sam Navab, who also noted the new store is less than a 10-minute drive from the old one.

“I’m surprised to see how many customers come and buy a rug and say, ‘I’m so happy you’re moving to St. Paul,’” he added.

**Preparing for the Move**

American Rug Laundry is currently offering discounted rug cleaning services and lower rug prices ahead of the move, which is planned to wrap up by January 1.
https://www.twincities.com/2025/11/01/american-rug-laundry-moving-st-paul-minneapolis/

Medieval English castle linked to Hadrian’s Wall hits market for lofty sum, but there’s a catch

Bellister Castle in Northumberland, England, is now hitting the market for approximately $3.34 million. However, there’s an important detail potential buyers should be aware of.

Unlike a traditional sale, this opportunity involves a National Trust lease that extends until 2145. This means the property is not being sold outright, but rather leased under the terms set by the National Trust.

If you’re interested in owning a piece of history with a unique lease arrangement, Bellister Castle could be an intriguing option to consider.
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/medieval-english-castle-linked-hadrians-wall-hits-market-lofty-sum-catch

Diane Keaton’s former Beverly Hills home listed for $25M following her death

Diane Keaton’s former Los Angeles home is now on the market. The 8,434-square-foot property, located in Beverly Hills, is listed for $25 million. The listing is in partnership with agents Rayni and Branden Williams of Beverly Hills Estates.

According to The Robb Report, the legendary actress purchased the home in 2007 for $8.1 million and later sold it to producer Ryan Murphy three years later for $10 million. Originally built in the 1920s, the six-bedroom, nine-bathroom Spanish Colonial-style residence is situated in the Flats neighborhood of Beverly Hills. The home features a library, media room, and an office.

Additional amenities include a gym, wine cellar, and a two-car garage. Outside, the property boasts multiple seating and dining areas, a swimming pool, a sports court, a courtyard with a fountain, and a guest house.

Known for her Academy Award-winning performance in *Annie Hall* and roles in films such as *The First Wives Club*, *The Godfather* series, and *Father of the Bride*, Diane Keaton passed away on October 11 in Los Angeles at the age of 79.

According to a death certificate obtained by Fox News Digital, the immediate cause of death was primary bacterial pneumonia. Keaton reportedly battled the illness for several days prior to her passing. The document lists no other significant contributing conditions and states that she was cremated on October 14.

The late actress’s family released a statement on October 16 confirming her cause of death. “The Keaton family are very grateful for the extraordinary messages of love and support they have received these past few days on behalf of their beloved Diane, who passed away from pneumonia on October 11,” the statement read, per *People*. “She loved her animals and she was steadfast in her support of the unhoused community, so any donations in her memory to a local food bank or an animal shelter would be a wonderful and much appreciated tribute to her.”

Following her death, many Hollywood stars took to social media to honor the Oscar winner, including her former co-star Al Pacino. The two starred together in *The Godfather* and shared a romantic relationship for many years.

In a heartfelt statement to *Deadline*, Pacino said, “I am deeply saddened by Diane Keaton’s passing. When I first heard the news, I was shaken. Diane was my partner, my friend, someone who brought me happiness and on more than one occasion influenced the direction of my life. Though over thirty years has passed since we were together, the memories remain vivid, and with her passing, they have returned with a force that is both painful and moving.”

He continued, saying she “inspired generations and embodied a once-in-a-lifetime gift that radiated through her work and her life,” describing her on-screen presence as “magnetic.” Pacino closed his sentimental statement by writing, “I will always remember her. She could fly and in my heart, she always will.”
https://www.foxbusiness.com/fox-news-entertainment/diane-keatons-former-beverly-hills-home-listed-25m-following-her-death

Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow Launches December 4 for PS VR2, Steam VR, and Quest 2 and 3

Publisher Vertigo Games and developer Maze Theory have announced that the virtual reality stealth action game Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow will launch for PlayStation VR2, SteamVR, and Quest 2 and 3 on December 4. A new gameplay trailer has also been released, showcasing the immersive experience players can expect.

About the Game
The City is a place of shadows, ruled by the powerful and feared by the oppressed. Its rooftops form a labyrinth above the narrow, twisting streets. The City Watch prowls relentlessly, enforcing the iron will of Baron Ulysses Northcrest, a tyrant who crushes rebellion before it can take root.

You play as Magpie, a cunning thief orphaned by Northcrest’s brutality and shaped by the streets. Stealing is your only means of survival—until you uncover something greater: a legendary artifact holding a legacy from the past.

Using immersive virtual reality mechanics, players must steal, evade, and outsmart the forces controlling The City. Unravel its darkest secrets and expose a sinister conspiracy that threatens the very foundation of this shadowy world.

About the Author
William D’Angelo is a life-long and avid gamer who was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he joined in 2010 as a junior analyst and worked his way up to lead analyst by 2012, taking over hardware estimates in 2017.

He has further expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube and Twitch channels. You can follow William on Bluesky.

For more information, read the full article on VGChartz: Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow Launches December 4 for PS VR2, Steam VR, and Quest 2 and 3.

https://www.vgchartz.com/article/466155/thief-vr-legacy-of-shadow-launches-december-4-for-ps-vr2-steam-vr-and-quest-2-and-3/

CORZ Has Major Upside Following Failed CRWV Takeover

Investment bank Macquarie has upgraded Core Scientific (CORZ) to an outperform rating from neutral, raising its price target on the stock by nearly 90% to $34 from $18. This move follows the collapse of the proposed merger deal between Core Scientific and CoreWeave (CRWV).

The failed merger came as no surprise, according to analysts Paul Golding and Marni Lysaght, who noted in their Thursday report that shareholder opposition was evident from reports and proxy recommendations. Despite the setback, Macquarie’s analysts view the outcome positively, as it gives Core Scientific greater flexibility to lease its near-term power capacity to AI tenants.

Core Scientific shares responded positively, rising 4.5% in early trading to around $21.70.

The analysts highlighted that Core Scientific’s 1.5 gigawatt (GW) power portfolio includes 590 megawatts (MW) already leased to CoreWeave, with an additional 1 GW gross—and roughly 700 MW billable—currently under load study. Management expects to sign at least one new colocation customer by the fourth-quarter earnings report. Macquarie noted that securing a new tenant could accelerate revenue diversification and underscore Core Scientific’s competitive advantage in high-performance computing buildouts.

Meanwhile, Jefferies commented that Core Scientific is moving forward with renewed focus after shareholders rejected the proposed merger with CoreWeave. According to analysts led by Jonathan Petersen, Core Scientific exits the merger process retaining 1.5 GW of existing and planned billable power capacity, with minimal capital expenditure tied to the now-defunct deal.

Throughout the merger talks, Core Scientific continued to expand its data center business, positioning itself to sign new tenants and power contracts by the end of the year. Jefferies emphasized that signing a new tenant would be a key milestone in diversifying revenue streams and reducing reliance on CoreWeave.

Jefferies currently holds a buy rating on Core Scientific shares, with a price target of $28.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/tech/corz-has-major-upside-following-failed-crwv-takeover/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=corz-has-major-upside-following-failed-crwv-takeover

Cardinals QB Kyler Murray limited in practice once again ahead of Cowboys game

The Arizona Cardinals enter Week 9 facing uncertainty about the status of quarterback Kyler Murray, who was limited in practice for the second consecutive day, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This comes ahead of Monday night’s matchup against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium.

Murray has been dealing with a toe and foot injury sustained in Week 5, causing him to miss the past two games. He continued to work on a restricted basis throughout this week’s practices. On Friday, backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett took the majority of the first-team reps, throwing to top targets Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, and Trey McBride. Meanwhile, Murray primarily worked with reserve receivers such as Simi Fehoko and Xavier Weaver.

During team drills, Brissett attempted 16 passes compared to Murray’s eight, signaling that Arizona may once again be preparing its veteran backup to start. Head coach Jonathan Gannon stated Thursday that the team is preparing Murray to start, but the quarterback’s limited workload raises ongoing doubts about his readiness.

Throughout Week 7, Murray was listed as a limited participant before ultimately being ruled inactive on game day. Despite the extra rest from the bye week, his status for Week 9 remains uncertain.

Murray’s potential absence would be significant, especially considering his perfect 9-0 record at AT&T Stadium. This unbeaten streak includes his time playing for Allen High School (5-0), Texas A&M (1-0), Oklahoma (1-0), and the Arizona Cardinals (2-0).

In his two NFL wins against Dallas, Murray combined for 377 passing yards and four touchdowns. Those victories include a dominant 38-10 rout in 2020 and a tight 25-22 triumph in 2022 — his only win against Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott to date.

On the other hand, Brissett has thrown for 599 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception over the past two games — both of which ended in losses. The 10-year veteran holds a 19-36 career record as a starter.

With a 2-5 record, the Cardinals will need stability at the quarterback position as they face a Cowboys team (3-4-1) looking to bounce back on home turf.

Arizona’s offense currently ranks 19th in scoring, averaging 21.9 points per game, and 22nd in total yardage with 310.3 yards per game. Defensively, the Cardinals sit 13th in points allowed, giving up 22.0 points per game.

Kyler Murray has been the driving force behind Arizona’s offense this season, completing 68.3% of his passes for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions over five games. He has also contributed 173 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.

In addition to Murray, the Cardinals listed several players as limited participants during Friday’s practice. These included Emari Demercado (ankle), Zay Jones (knee), BJ Ojulari (knee), Walter Nolen III (calf), Garrett Williams (knee), and Kitan Crawford (ankle).

The team is expected to release its final injury designations after Saturday’s practice. However, Kyler Murray’s availability remains the biggest question heading into Monday night’s primetime matchup in Arlington.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/arizona-cardinals/cardinals-news-kyler-murray-limited-practice-ahead-of-cowboys-game

Results of writer’s carelessness, as revealed in slips Crossword Clue

That should be all the information you need to solve the crossword clue: **Results of writer’s carelessness, as revealed in slips**.

Be sure to check more clues on our [Crossword Answers](#) page for additional help and solutions.

*The post “Results of writer’s carelessness, as revealed in slips Crossword Clue” appeared first on Try Hard Guides.*
https://tryhardguides.com/results-of-writers-carelessness-as-revealed-in-slips-crossword-clue/