AI-rewritten: This is a summary of an article from Ars Technica, rewritten by AI (Qwen, running locally) to make it easier to read. The facts come from the original article – read it for the full story.

---

Apple opened preorders for the HomeView, its first smart display, today. This 7-inch device functions as a central hub for up to six family members to control Apple’s ecosystem and access Siri generative AI, which is currently in beta. Users can use voice commands to manage smart home devices like blinds or locks, and the screen can display up to nine video feeds simultaneously. With an iCloud+ subscription, it works with compatible cameras to provide intelligent, encrypted recognition of people, pets, and packages, notifying users when someone arrives at the front door.

The HomeView identifies users via its integrated camera and allows them to personalize their interface with preferred apps and widgets. It connects to Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhones or iPads to surface information from Messages, Calendar, and other personal data. Even without such devices, users can leverage Siri AI for broad world knowledge and natural conversations. Apple states that Siri requests run either locally or via Private Cloud Compute, where data is not stored or made accessible to Apple or others.

The device features a Liquid Retina screen with adjustable brightness from 0.3 to 500 nits, which can auto-adjust based on room lighting. The interface also changes intelligently depending on the user’s distance, showing simpler views from afar and richer detail up close. The HomeView tilts using a stainless steel hinge and includes a USB-C charging port in its speaker base. Wall-mounting requires a specific model available only in space gray and silver, with extra wall mounts starting at $60 made by Schneider Home. Preorders are open today, with the device launching on November 13 for $299.