Apple’s newly announced HomeView smart home display has received a lukewarm response from popular tech reviewer Marques Brownlee, better known as MKBHD. Despite its advanced Siri AI features and smart home controls, Brownlee believes the $299 device offers too little additional value for existing Apple users.
In his HomeView impressions video, Brownlee questioned who would actually benefit from buying Apple’s latest smart home product, saying, “I cannot figure any group that this is actually ideal for.”
Why MKBHD Isn’t Convinced by Apple HomeView
Brownlee’s biggest concern is that HomeView duplicates several features already available across Apple’s ecosystem, particularly on the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and HomePod.
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He also highlighted the lack of an App Store, which limits the device’s flexibility compared with an iPad or other dedicated smart displays.
Here are the main limitations:
- No App Store: Users cannot install third-party applications directly.
- Overlapping features: Existing Apple devices already handle many of its functions.
- iPhone dependency: Some personalized features and entertainment options require a paired iPhone.
- Limited additional value: Brownlee believes the $299 price is difficult to justify for most households.
HomeView can display supported CarPlay apps from a connected iPhone, although its lack of native video streaming apps remains a notable restriction.
What Apple HomeView Actually Offers
Apple introduced HomeView on October 13 with several features aimed at connected households.
| Feature | Apple HomeView |
|---|---|
| Display | 7-inch Liquid Retina |
| Processor | A18 chip |
| Voice assistant | Siri AI |
| Smart home | Matter and Thread support |
| Personalization | Recognition for six users |
| Starting price | $299 |
| Release date | November 13, 2026 |
As we previously covered, HomeView also serves as a central controller for compatible smart home accessories, including cameras, doorbells, and thermostats.
Its personalized Siri features depend on a compatible iPhone or iPad, which adds another consideration for buyers.
Brownlee ultimately describes HomeView as a product most people should skip for now. However, households that want a shared screen for calendars, reminders, security cameras, and smart home controls may still find it useful.
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