The new Apple HomeView comes preinstalled with a selection of Apple apps — including Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple News, Calendar, FaceTime and Messages — and it also supports third-party audio and video apps by relying on a connection to a compatible iPhone or iPad rather than an on-device App Store.
Apple did not create an App Store for HomeView. Instead, HomeView uses a CarPlay-like system that displays third-party apps when the device is connected to a compatible iPhone or iPad. Audio apps made for CarPlay, such as Spotify and Audible, will work on HomeView, and developers can extend HomeView support to existing iOS video apps.
HomeView multi-user and privacy
HomeView supports up to six people in a household and distinguishes users by voice and via the camera built into the front of the device. Each user’s apps and personal information are shown only when that person is enrolled and authenticated. Apple says a user must be recognized by the camera and have a paired and recently unlocked iPhone or iPad near the HomeView for it to display compatible third-party iOS apps and information from apps like Messages and Calendar.
Shared photo albums and music can be accessed by anyone in the home, including guests; guests will not be able to see personal information because of the authentication requirement.
HomeView is priced at $299, is available for pre-order now and will launch on November 13.
