HomeView can recognize up to six household members and display personalized apps and notifications|@johnternus|X
The tech giant is expanding its smart home ambitions by bringing home automation, entertainment and security features closer together in one connected ecosystem.
The company unveiled its new Apple Home Collection, a range of connected devices designed to bring home security and automation deeper into its ecosystem.
The launch marks Apple’s first significant entry into the smart home market and the second major release of the new CEO John Ternus era.
At the center of the strategy is HomeView, a $299 smart home hub with a seven-inch display.
- HomeView can recognize up to six household members and display personalized apps and notifications. It will take on Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub, but its ability to sync with household iPhones could give it a competitive edge.
- With Siri AI at its core, the HomeView supports everything from FaceTime and Safari to Messages, Calendar, and Reminders.
The hub goes on sale November 13. Apple’s goal is to make HomeView the control center for its connected smart home ecosystem. The company also introduced an updated HomePod mini 2 and Apple TV 4K.
The wider lineup includes a smart deadbolt lock, video doorbell, thermostat, temperature sensor, and indoor and outdoor security cameras, with launches planned for December.
The $349.95 smart lock uses ultra-wideband technology to detect authorized users nearby, potentially unlocking doors automatically. The $249.95 wired video doorbell sends alerts to iPhones and iPads, while a $399.95 floodlight camera combines outdoor lighting, video monitoring and motion detection.
Apple developed the accessories with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric.