Apple's homeview smart hub supports third-party apps without face ID

Apple has introduced its first smart home hub, HomeView, which allows users to access third-party audio and video applications through a connected iPhone or iPad. The device supports up to six users in a home environment, using facial recognition via the Center Stage camera and voice identification rather than Face ID. IT Home reports that HomeView comes preloaded with Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple News, Calendar, FaceTime, and Messages, but lacks an App Store for downloading additional apps. The system uses a mechanism similar to CarPlay to enable third-party app support. To function, users must have a registered Apple Intelligence-enabled device, connected to the home Wi-Fi and recently unlocked. The hub identifies users by matching facial and voice data with the connected iPhone or iPad, ensuring personalized experiences. Apple also clarified that Apple Watch is not considered a registered personal device for HomeView's facial recognition.