Apple Prepares HomeView Smart Home Hub Ahead of Event

Apple is preparing a new smart home hub called HomeView, along with updated HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K devices, as it expands its home ecosystem ahead of its October 13 smart home event in New York City, according to reports from Bloomberg, CNET and MacRumors. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, cited by CNET and MacRumors, reported that HomeView will use an A18 chip and serve as a Siri-focused command center for Apple Home. The device is expected to ship around mid-November.

According to MacRumors, HomeView will come in tabletop and wall-mounted versions. The tabletop model will include a metal speaker base, while the wall-mounted version will use a flat square base.

MacRumors reported that the device will support Siri AI, include Apple apps but not an App Store for third-party apps, and offer features such as home controls and communication tools. The report also said the tabletop model will have four finishes, while the wall-mounted version will have two.

The Verge reported that Apple’s smart home strategy depends heavily on software as well as hardware. The company is expected to bring Siri AI and Apple Intelligence deeper into home devices after earlier HomePod and Apple TV models lacked those capabilities. According to The Verge, Apple has been rebuilding its Home platform after updating HomeKit’s underlying architecture and the Home app. The company is also positioned to use standards such as Matter and Thread to improve compatibility among smart home devices.

Apple is also expected to introduce a second-generation HomePod mini with an S10 chip, according to MacRumors. The updated speaker is expected to come in green, pink, blue, white and midnight finishes. MacRumors reported that the new Apple TV 4K will use an A19 chip with 8GB of RAM. The device may also include built-in microphones for Siri AI and an updated Siri Remote with a speaker to help users locate it.

The Verge reported that Apple is expected to compete with existing smart display products from Amazon and Google by focusing on a more integrated software experience. The report noted that the smart home market remains challenging because connected systems must handle different household needs and devices. Alongside HomeView, Apple is expected to introduce an Apple Home Collection of accessories developed with partners including LG and Schneider Electric, according to MacRumors. The collection is expected to include smart home products such as doorbells, locks, thermostats, sensors and security cameras.