Apple is preparing to introduce its long-awaited smart home hub, which Bloomberg reports will be named the HomeView. The device is scheduled to make its public debut during the company’s “Welcome home” event on Tuesday. According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the HomeView will begin shipping in mid-November, arriving a few weeks after other new hardware releases.
HomeView Design and Siri Control
The HomeView is designed to serve as a central command center for users with Apple-powered smart homes. Gurman noted that the “View” portion of the name indicates the device includes a display, but it is primarily controlled through Siri and voice commands rather than touch. This distinction separates it from a tablet-like experience, which might have been suggested by a name like “HomePad.” The device will not have access to the App Store and will support only a limited selection of Apple apps.
Apple plans to offer the HomeView in two form factors. A countertop version will feature a metal speaker base and will be available in space gray, silver, starlight, and pink. A wall-mounted model will also be released, but it will be limited to space gray and silver color options.
Third-Party Accessories and Shipping Timeline
To expand the smart home ecosystem, Apple is collaborating with third-party manufacturers to create devices that connect to the HomeView. The company has been working with LG to develop several products, including doorbells, thermostats, and outdoor security cameras. In the European market, Apple is partnering with Schneider Electric SE to produce smart home devices. These third-party products will be sold under the “Apple Home Collection” brand.
The HomeView will launch alongside other updates to Apple’s smart home lineup. A revamped HomePod mini, equipped with the S10 chip, is expected to start shipping on October 30. A new Apple TV set-top box featuring the A19 chip will also be available on that date. The HomeView will follow in mid-November, while the LG accessories are predicted to ship later in the year.
Source: Engadget
