The Apple HomeView is a new smart display priced at $299 that combines a standard screen with a dedicated camera for video calling and home monitoring. Jen Tuohy, senior smart home reviewer at The Verge, tested both the tabletop and wall-mounted versions in various settings including a kitchen counter, bedside table, and entryway. She evaluated its ability to run smart home routines, make calls, and process queries through Siri. The device also functions as a security camera when not in use. Tuohy noted that her tech-averse husband found the interface friendly while her teenage daughter remained less enthusiastic about the hardware. The review highlights the physical presence of the device in daily routines rather than abstract features.
This release matters because it marks Apple’s first dedicated smart display, entering a market previously dominated by Amazon and Google. The inclusion of a high-quality camera differentiates the HomeView from competitors by offering built-in video calling and home monitoring without requiring separate hardware. Tuohy’s testing confirms the device works for practical tasks like cooking and controlling connected devices. The product targets households seeking an integrated control panel that also serves as a communication hub. Its success will depend on how well users adopt the new Siri capabilities and whether the camera functionality encourages regular use beyond simple queries.
* Price is set at $299 for both tabletop and wall-mounted models
* The device includes a dedicated camera for video calls and monitoring
* Tuohy tested the unit in multiple rooms over a week
