Apple Unveils HomeView Smart Hub Without an App Store

Apple announced its first dedicated smart‑home hub, HomeView, a 7‑inch touchscreen device sold for $299. The tablet‑style unit comes in tabletop and wall‑mount models and ships with several Apple apps preinstalled, including Apple Music, Podcasts, Calendar, FaceTime, Messages and Apple News. HomeView is positioned as a voice‑controlled interface that can also stream content from nearby iPhones or iPads using CarPlay.

Why HomeView Lacks an App Store

Unlike almost all other Apple products, HomeView does not have an App Store. Apple explains that the hub uses CarPlay‑style streaming, allowing users to stream audio and video apps from their iPhone or iPad to the HomeView screen, and it supports a limited selection of widgets. The company says that keeping a built‑in store would add memory and storage costs, complicate multi‑user app management, and dilute the focus on Siri as the primary interface.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple is preparing a higher‑end model, code‑named J595, that could debut in 2027 or 2028. This future HomeView Pro would have a larger 9‑inch display and a motorized robotic arm that can swivel 360° to face whoever is speaking, using voice recognition to determine direction. The device would not replace the current $299 version and is intended as a premium option.

Apple’s launch of HomeView shows its intent to keep the hub tightly integrated with its ecosystem and Siri. By limiting third‑party apps and emphasizing streaming and voice control, Apple can maintain a controlled user experience while it works on future hardware upgrades, such as the larger, motorized HomeView Pro that could arrive in 2027 or 2028.