Apple launches ‘HomeView’ smart display at ₹39,900:Introduces new HomePod Mini 2 and Apple TV 4K, brings personalised Siri for better experience

Imagine walking into your home and having your calendar, messages and favourite music appear on a screen automatically. You could also control your lights, make video calls and manage other smart devices without moving around the house. Apple is looking to make this possible with its new smart home products. At its Welcome Home launch event in New York, Apple introduced a new range of smart home gadgets, including the HomeView smart display, HomePod mini 2 and Apple TV 4K. The company has also announced security-focused devices, including a smart doorbell and security camera. The new products are designed to make everyday activities easier, from controlling home appliances to watching movies and improving home security. With these launches, Apple is looking to compete with Amazon and Google in the smart home market. According to the announcement, the HomeView smart display costs ₹39,900. Pre-orders for HomeView and Apple TV 4K have begun, with deliveries scheduled to start on November 13. The HomePod mini 2 is expected to reach customers from October 30. Apple HomeView: A smart display for your home The HomeView is a key highlight of Apple’s new smart home lineup. It features a seven-inch touchscreen and a speaker at the bottom. Users can place it on a table or mount it on a wall, depending on their preference. Powered by Apple’s A18 chip, the device is designed to help users manage different activities around their homes. It can control compatible smart lights and fans, support video calls, play music, and provide access to entertainment. Key features of Apple HomeView 1. Facial recognition: The smart display comes with a camera that can recognise up to six people in a household. When it identifies someone, it can show personalised information, including their calendar, meetings and messages. 2. Siri voice assistant: Users can control compatible smart home devices using voice commands. When connected to an iPhone, Siri can also help users access information about their home, including activity recorded by compatible security cameras. 3. Smart home controls: The touchscreen makes it easier to manage compatible devices, such as lights and fans, from one place. 4. Entertainment and video calls: Users can listen to music, watch supported video content, and make video calls through the device. With these features, HomeView aims to bring several everyday activities together on a single screen. Apple HomePod mini 2: A smart speaker with colourful lights Apple has also introduced the HomePod mini 2, the latest addition to its smart speaker lineup. The device is designed to offer music playback, voice assistance and smart home controls in a compact design. The speaker features Apple’s new S10 chip and supports wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. One of its highlighted features is the Sound Glow lighting effect, which changes colours in sync with the music being played. The HomePod mini 2 is priced at ₹18,900 and will be available in five colours: pink, blue, green, white and midnight. Deliveries are scheduled to begin on October 30.’ New Apple TV 4K: Control entertainment using your voice Apple has also introduced a new Apple TV 4K, designed to make watching television and accessing entertainment easier. The device supports voice commands, allowing users to search for and play their favourite movies or shows without having to navigate everything manually using the remote. Another useful feature is the ability to locate a misplaced remote using Apple’s Find My feature on a compatible iPhone. Users who already own compatible HomePod speakers can also benefit from audio integration designed to improve their home entertainment experience. However, Apple has not announced the India price of the new Apple TV 4K. Apple introduces new smart home security devices Alongside its entertainment and smart display products, Apple has also expanded its smart home ecosystem with new security and automation devices developed in partnership with technology companies LG and Schneider Electric. The new lineup includes: These products are designed to make home security and everyday household management more convenient. Apple looks to strengthen its smart home presence With the launch of HomeView, HomePod mini 2 and the new Apple TV 4K, Apple is expanding its focus beyond smartphones, computers and wearable devices. The new products aim to bring home entertainment, automation and security together through connected devices and voice controls. The HomeView smart display is particularly notable because it combines a touchscreen, personalised information and smart home controls in one device. However, Apple’s success in this market will depend on product availability, pricing and how well its devices work with other smart home products. The company will also face competition from established players such as Amazon and Google.