Apple introduces $299 HomeView; personal Siri AI requires a paired device
HomeView combines Siri AI, calls and home controls on a shared screen, with delivery starting November 13. Personal context requires a compatible paired iPhone or iPad, and launch markets, languages and usage are limited.
Apple announced HomeView on October 13 in tabletop and wall-mounted versions, each priced at US$299 in the United States. It combines a 7-inch display, A18 chip and 12-megapixel camera with music, FaceTime calls and smart-home controls. Apple says it can recognize up to six users and switch to their individual home screens.
General Siri AI knowledge and conversation do not require every user to own an Apple Intelligence-capable phone. Personal calendar, message and other context requests have a stricter gate: a paired Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad, current software and Siri AI enabled in a supported language. The full personal experience also requires an Apple Account and membership of the shared home. Guests can still use home controls, weather, timers and music.
Access to private content is a central condition of this shared screen. Apple says HomeView must recognize the enrolled user’s face and the paired device must be present and recently unlocked; the product page specifies the same Wi-Fi network. The announcement describes a narrow disconnection exception: personal information may remain available if the paired device stays at the location, has cellular service and meets the recent Wi-Fi and unlock conditions. These are the manufacturer’s access rules, not independently tested security results.
Siri AI will be in beta in HomeView software 27.2, initially in English across eight markets, with Canadian French coming later. Some server-based features have daily limits; Apple says expanded usage will cost extra in the future but does not give a price in these materials. The wall-mounted version also needs a separately sold mount, USB-C cable and power adapter of at least 20W, so US$299 is not a complete installation cost. The tabletop version includes power and cable.
Preorders have opened in Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, the UK and the US. Singapore preorders start at 9 a.m. local time on October 15; South Africa uses authorized resellers. Availability across these markets is planned from November 13. Apple says the product is not on sale in the EU, and mainland China is absent from the announced launch list. Preorder access now is distinct from hardware delivery next month.
Sources
- Meet Apple HomeView, a new way to enjoy entertainment, stay connected, and manage the home — Apple
- Apple HomeView — Apple
- Apple HomeView — Technical Specifications — Apple