Apple is preparing to launch a smart home hub called HomeView, according to Bloomberg reporting cited by Engadget. The device is set to begin shipping in November. It is expected to work alongside Apple's other smart home products, including a refreshed HomePod mini that is also in the pipeline.
The name HomeView reflects how the device is meant to be used. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the "View" portion signals that the hub functions as a display driven mainly by Siri and voice commands, rather than offering a tablet-like experience that a name such as HomePad would suggest.
Gurman reported that HomeView will be offered in two versions. A countertop model will include a metal speaker base and come in space gray, silver, starlight and pink. A wall-mounted model will be sold only in space gray and silver.
The hub will take an unusual approach to apps for Apple hardware. According to Gurman, it will support only a limited set of Apple apps and will not offer access to the App Store. Instead, Apple reportedly wants users to rely on third-party accessories that connect to HomeView through Siri, the company's Home app or its devices.
To build out that ecosystem, Apple has been working with LG on a range of smart home products, including doorbells, thermostats and outdoor security cameras. Gurman also reported that Apple is collaborating with Schneider Electric SE on smart home devices for the European market. All of these third-party products are to be sold under the Apple Home Collection name.
Apple is expected to pair the HomeView launch with other hardware updates. Gurman said a revamped HomePod mini will use the S10 chip, while a new Apple TV set-top box will carry the A19 chip. Those two products are expected to start shipping and reach Apple stores on October 30, with HomeView following a few weeks later in mid-November.
The LG-made products are expected to arrive after HomeView. Gurman predicted they will ship later this year at the earliest, leaving the timing of the broader Apple Home Collection lineup uncertain for US buyers.
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