When Apple gets ready to launch its new product, rumors about what to call it always swirl around. For months, tech fans called the upcoming smart display the HomePad or simply a home hub. Now, strong evidence points to a completely different name. The new tabletop screen will likely hit the market as the HomeView. This new name hints at a screen you look at while using voice controls to run your house.
Shell companies hide the true identity of the product
For a long time, the tech giant kept the upcoming hardware secret. People started finding clues in legal paperwork filed by unknown groups. A shell company called Home Services LLC recently tried to claim the rights to the HomeView name. Another quiet business filed paperwork to secure the homeOS name.
Reporters dug into these filings and realized a secret trademark application might belong to the company as a way to keep things under wraps until the big reveal.
Don’t miss the best of The Mac Observer
Set us as a preferred source and our Apple reporting ranks higher in your Google Search results and Discover feed — one tap, no account changes.
The hardware brings a fresh shape to your kitchen counter
The new screen will stand out from older speakers. Reports suggest the HomeView will feature a six inch screen that floats on top of a metal speaker base, looking a bit like a classic desktop computer.
The device will rely on the powerful A18 chip and come in four colors, including silver, space gray, starlight, and pink. It will also feature a front camera that recognizes who is standing in the room to show personal information.
Voice commands take charge over standard touch screen menus
Even though the display supports touch input, you will mostly talk to it. The system focuses on better Siri functions rather than endless menus. The screen will run a limited group of built in apps and will not include a standard store to download outside software.
You can check out early details about the upcoming device to see how the system controls lights, locks, and security cameras across your house.
Press releases replace a live video feed for the reveal
The guessing game ends today as the company holds a special media gathering in New York City. However, it is not offering a live video broadcast for the public to view. Instead, it is hosting select journalists and creators in person to test the new hardware.
If you want to catch the news as it breaks, you can review our guide on following the latest announcements through the official press room. While the hardware gets announced today, store shelves will likely not see the device until mid November. This gives you a few weeks to decide if you want to add the new screen to your living room.
Discussion