Key points
- The HomeView hub features an A18 chip, 8GB of RAM, and a 6-inch square display.
- It includes a camera and presence sensor to recognize users and trigger HomeKit automations.
- A new Apple TV 4K with an A19 chip and Siri AI capabilities is also expected.
Apple will hold its "Welcome Home" product launch event on October 13, introducing new smart home accessories. According to 9to5Mac, the company confirmed the date for the announcement, which will include an in-person press experience in New York City and an online video presentation. The event focuses on home automation devices, with the long-rumored HomeView hub as the primary announcement.
In plain English
The HomeView is a multi-function home hub designed for household occupants. MacRumors reports it will be powered by Siri AI and equipped with an A18 chip and 8GB of RAM. The device features a 6-inch square touch display with bezels. It supports widgets from connected iPhones, displays calendar events, and shows recipes. Users can control smart home devices, play media, and make video calls through the interface.
View the original post on X
View the original post on X
The background
Bloomberg reports the HomeView will come in two physical variations: a wall-mounted model and a countertop version with a half-dome speaker base and flexible arm. The device uses a camera and presence sensor to identify who is nearby, showing customized content via a Face ID variation. These sensors can trigger HomeKit scenes, such as turning on lights when someone enters a room. The hub lacks a battery and requires a USB-C power connection.
What changes now
The HomeView will not have its own App Store but will support native Apple apps like Safari, News, Music, and Photos. MacRumors notes the interface will resemble iPhone StandBy mode, with a widget-heavy layout. Multiple hubs can link for multi-room music and intercom features. Additionally, 9to5Mac states Apple will announce a new Apple TV 4K with an A19 or A19 Pro chip, adding Siri AI and Apple Intelligence features for the first time.
What to do and how to stay safe: Apple
- Review your home network security settings before adding new smart home devices to your ecosystem.
- Check if your existing HomeKit accessories are compatible with the new presence sensor automation features.
- Monitor official Apple channels for the exact release date, as the HomeView may not ship until November.
- Ensure your current iOS devices are updated to support the widget syncing features described for the hub.
Step-by-step guide: Smartphone Security Updates for Small Business Operations
General security guidance from the Patch Review newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
When will the Apple HomeView be available for purchase?
According to 9to5Mac, the HomeView will be announced on October 13 but will not be available until sometime in November.
What chip powers the new Apple TV 4K?
9to5Mac reports the new Apple TV 4K will include the A19 or A19 Pro chip, enabling Siri AI features.
Does the HomeView have its own app store?
No, MacRumors states the hub will not have a built-in App Store but will support specific Apple apps like Safari and Mail.
