A few weeks ago, BloombergMark Gurman of reported that the next Apple TV and HomePod mini devices will arrive in 2025 with a new, bigger feature: Apple’s custom-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip. According to the report, the code-named Proxima chip will be available with the new Apple TV, HomePod mini and iPhone 17 modelsand a new iteration of this processor will be available on iPad and Mac devices in 2026. It claims that the custom-designed chip will support Wi-Fi 6E and help “sync data faster.”

This change could benefit Apple’s creation of thinner devices and new wearable technology, because eventually the company wants to integrate the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip into a cellular modem and the main processor of its devices.

However, this custom Wi-Fi chip could offer even more exciting news for those waiting for a new AirPort iteration – which is not in the works.

In his last To light up newsletter, BloombergMark Gurman of Mark Gurman gives another tidbit about this upcoming Proxima Wi-Fi chip, which is “so sophisticated it could theoretically turn a home device like an Apple TV box or HomePod with a wireless hotspot.

Although the journalist doesn’t think this is the “main selling point of the devices”, they could add this functionality. Users could improve their Wi-Fi range with these wireless hotspots.

However, it’s important to note that while Apple’s custom Wi-Fi chip could theoretically turn a home device into WAP, it’s possible that Cupertino may never enable this feature. With the HomePod mini, the company took a long time to add smoke detection and internal weather, even though the capabilities were built into the device from day one.

The future Apple TV should feature Apple’s A18 chip and this new Wi-Fi chip. It’s not clear what improvements Cupertino is working on in the future HomePod mini, although more powerful sound with more noticeable bass would be great. addition.

CNET we’ll let you know once we know more about these devices.