Apple is expected to launch its new smart home display, called HomeView, on Tuesday, October 13. The shipments are likely to begin in mid-November, according to a Bloomberg report by Mark Gurman. The device is designed to serve as a central control point for Apple’s connected home products, with Siri at the centre of its functions.
HomeView is expected to feature a touchscreen and an A18 chip. Apple reportedly plans two versions of the device. One will sit on a countertop with a metal speaker base, while the other will mount on a wall with a flat, square base. Apple has not immediately responded to a request for comment on the reported launch plans.
Bring Siri to Smart Homes
Apple has been developing a Siri-focused smart display for more than a year. The device was previously referred to in reports as HomePod. It is expected to help users control connected home devices through Apple’s HomeKit platform. The display could compete with Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub range. These products combine voice assistants with screens for controlling smart home equipment and accessing information.
HomeView’s reported A18 chip and touchscreen would support its role as a central interface for Apple’s smart home ecosystem. However, Apple has yet to confirm the device’s specifications, features or price.
Also Read: Apple October 13 Event: New Smart Home Hub, Siri AI Expected
What Updates Expected
HomeView is not expected to be the only product at Apple’s upcoming smart home event. According to Gurman, the company is also preparing a new Apple TV set-top box powered by an A19 chip. Apple is also expected to introduce an updated HomePod mini featuring an S10 chip. The speaker could extend voice control and music playback across different rooms in a home.
Apple has announced a special event titled ‘Welcome Home’ for Tuesday. The company sent invitations on Thursday featuring a distinctive rainbow-coloured Apple logo. The event is expected to focus on Apple’s smart home plans. HomeView could mark a significant addition to that lineup, although the company has not officially confirmed the reported products or their release dates.