Apple has announced Home View, a new multimedia hub for controlling smart homes. While it runs an iOS-based operating system, it lacks a traditional App Store. Instead, the device runs third-party apps sourced from Car Play.
When an iPhone is nearby, users can access compatible audio and video apps through the smart hub. Processing occurs on the iPhone, not the Home View unit. Currently, only Car Play audio and video apps are supported, including Spotify and Deezer.
Major video apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube are absent from both Car Play and Home View. For developers, integrating Car Play support is the primary path to Home View compatibility. Apple's restrictive Car Play app distribution policies may discourage some developers despite the new platform opportunity.
The device features facial recognition to personalize content for different users and includes pre-installed Apple apps such as Safari, Music, and Messages.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing