Apple Launches HomeView Hub and Smart Home Lineup at 'Welcome Home' Event

Key points

• Apple unveiled the HomeView, its first smart display, featuring a 7-inch square screen, a speaker base, and a standalone operating system called 'HomeView Software.'
• The HomeView supports up to six iCloud profiles with personalized views triggered by face detection, requiring an iPhone with Apple Intelligence for full functionality.
• The HomePod Mini 2 costs $149 and features the S10 chip, new color options, and a 'Sound Glow' feature that syncs LED lights with album art, though Siri AI support will arrive via a future update.
• The fourth-generation Apple TV 4K is priced at $299, includes far-field microphones for hands-free Siri, and supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.
• Apple launched a new 'Apple Home Collection' with LG and Schneider Electric, including smart locks, cameras, and thermostats, with prices starting at $40.

Background

Apple has historically lagged behind Amazon and Google in the smart home market. This launch follows years of rumors and a revamped Siri AI in iOS 27, aiming to leverage Apple Intelligence to compete with Alexa+ and Gemini. Previous archive articles noted expectations for a 6-inch display and A18 chip, though final specs confirmed a 7-inch display and A19 chip for the TV.

How outlets are covering it

MacRumors initially reported the HomeView would have a 6-inch display and A18 chip, but The Verge and WIRED confirmed the final device has a 7-inch display. WIRED emphasized the standalone nature of the HomeView's operating system and the lack of App Store access, while The Verge highlighted the device's aesthetic appeal and compact form factor. All sources agree on the pricing and launch dates, but WIRED noted the HomePod Mini 2's Siri AI features will not be available at launch, a detail not emphasized in MacRumors' initial preview.

Why it matters

This launch marks Apple's most significant push into the smart home market in over a decade, directly challenging Amazon and Google's dominance. The integration of Siri AI across multiple devices aims to create a cohesive ecosystem, potentially shifting consumer preference toward Apple's platform despite higher prices. The new hardware also addresses previous criticisms of Apple's limited smart home device ecosystem.

What to watch

Preorders for the HomeView, HomePod Mini 2, and Apple TV 4K are open now. The HomePod Mini 2 and Apple TV 4K will ship on October 30, while the HomeView will ship on November 13. The Apple Home Collection accessories will be available in December. Apple is expected to release a software update for the HomePod Mini 2 to enable Siri AI features after launch.