Apple introduced the HomeView smart home hub alongside updates to the HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K, featuring enhanced Siri AI capabilities.
Key facts
- •The HomeView device is priced at $299 and features a 7-inch screen.
- •Preorders for the new devices began on Tuesday, with availability starting November 13.
- •The updated Apple TV 4K remote can play a sound to help users find it.
- •Siri AI on the Apple TV 4K provides text-only responses that do not overlap with video audio.
- •The HomeView will not be sold in the European Union due to regulatory restrictions on Siri AI.
Apple has unveiled the HomeView, a new $299 smart home hub featuring a 7-inch screen and facial recognition. Alongside this device, the company announced updated versions of the HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K, all incorporating an upgraded, more conversational version of Siri AI. The new hardware lineup is designed to integrate with various smart home accessories, including new offerings from LG and Schneider Electric.
By the numbers
HomeView Smart Hub Features
The HomeView is designed to act as a central hub for managing smart home devices such as thermostats, doorbells, and locks. It features a 7-inch display and utilizes facial recognition for user interaction. The device will not be available in the European Union, as the updated Siri AI is currently restricted there due to regulatory issues.
Apple TV and HomePod Updates
The updated Apple TV 4K now includes far-field microphones for hands-free Siri interaction and improved content discovery features that pull context from personal apps like Messages. Siri responses are displayed as text in the corner of the screen to avoid interrupting media playback. Additionally, the Apple TV remote has been updated with a new sound-emitting feature to assist in locating it. The HomePod mini 2 has also been refreshed to support the new AI-driven Siri features.
Smart Home Ecosystem Expansion
Apple introduced a range of compatible accessories, including smart thermostats from Schneider Electric and security cameras, doorbells, and smart locks from LG. These devices are managed through the Apple Home app. The launch is part of Apple's effort to compete with established smart home rivals like Amazon and Google.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Engadget, Guardian AI.
