Apple has unveiled its first smart home device with a display, the Apple HomeView, available for pre-order from today. The device, which starts at £129, is designed to rival Amazon's smart home offerings with a range of features including a 7-inch square display, a built-in camera, and Siri AI integration.
HomeView features and design
The HomeView features a domed aluminium base and a 7-inch display with a novel square shape, attached by a stainless-steel hinge for adjustable angles. It can be customised with wallpapers and apps, similar to an iPhone. The device includes a 12-megapixel camera that recognises who is in front of it and adapts apps accordingly, with privacy features that hide personal content when you walk away.
The display is bright, up to 500 nits, but can dim to 0.3 nits, making it Apple's dimmest display ever, suitable for bedside use. The camera is controlled by a secure element in the A18 processor, ensuring neither app developers nor Apple can access it. Users can disable facial recognition if desired.
Companion products and smart home integration
Apple also announced the HomePod mini 2, priced at £149, with an upgraded display that mimics album art colours. The Apple TV 4K has been upgraded for the first time in years, featuring microphones on the box for Siri interaction and a remote with Find My built in.
The HomeView can display linked smart home devices like video doorbells and thermostats, with icons readable from across the room. Apple has partnered with companies like LG to create initial products in the Apple Home Collection, due out in December, including an indoor camera and a video doorbell with two cameras.
Availability and pricing
Apple HomeView, Apple TV 4K, and Apple HomePod mini 2 are all available for pre-order from today. HomePod mini 2 (£149) goes on sale from 30 October, while Apple HomeView and Apple TV 4K, each costing £299, go on sale on 13 November.
