Apple HomeView Includes Temperature and Humidity Sensors

Apple's latest HomeView smart home hub now features temperature and humidity sensing capabilities. These sensors enable the device to monitor indoor conditions and transmit readings to new thermostats developed in collaboration with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric. Both the tabletop and wall-mounted HomeView models are equipped with temperature and humidity sensors, alongside an ambient light sensor and accelerometer.

However, there are certain restrictions for the HomeView's readings. The temperature and humidity sensing is optimized for indoor settings with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 86°F and relative humidity between 30% and 70%. Accuracy may be compromised when HomeView is playing audio at high volume for extended periods. The sensors also need time to calibrate immediately after startup before the readings become available.

According to Apple, the LG and Schneider Electric thermostats included in the Apple Home Collection can retrieve temperature and humidity data from multiple rooms using sensors from HomeView, HomePod, and HomePod mini, as well as dedicated sensors from the respective manufacturers. The thermostats in the collection also offer Adaptive Temperature in the Home app, utilizing on-device intelligence from iPhone to automatically adjust settings based on factors such as occupancy, winding down for the night, or absence from home.

The LG Temperature Sensor and Schneider Home Room Sensor will both retail for $39.95 in the United States, while the respective thermostats launch at $199.95 each. Both HomeView models will be available for $299 in the United States and will be released on November 13.