Apple’s first smart display is the 7-inch HomeView for $299

Apple has entered the smart-home market with a bang, unveiling the Apple HomeView, its first smart display alongside a new HomePod mini 2, Apple TV 4K, and a selection of smart-home devices from LG and Schneider Electric. This modern, 7-inch Liquid Retina display acts as a hub for connected devices, music, weather updates, and more, controlled via touchscreen or Siri AI voice commands.

The HomeView comes in two models, one with a speaker unit attached by an adjustable arm, and one designed for wall mounting. Priced at $299 in the US, £299 in the UK, and AU$449 in Australia, it competes with Amazon's Echo Show 8, but Apple positions it as a more affordable alternative, especially for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem.

The device boasts a 12MP Ultra Wide Center Stage camera, a multi-driver speaker system, and a six-person family recognition feature for personalized experiences. Unlike Amazon's devices, the HomeView prioritizes privacy, with personal data not stored on the device and Siri requests not recorded. The HomeView is powered by a custom HomeView Software, which integrates personal context for multi-step assistance, making it more than just a screen.

Apple has curated a list of compatible apps and services, including Messages, Music, Weather, Reminders, Calendar, Safari, Find My, FaceTime, Apple TV, Podcasts, News, and the Home app. Third-party media apps compatible with CarPlay will also be supported. The speaker-mounted version delivers impressive sound quality, perfect for a kitchen island or other shared spaces.

The HomeView aims to be a more integrated part of the home than a typical smart display, offering a personalized, multi-step experience that connects the dots across various requests.