Apple is poised to expand the capabilities of its upcoming HomeView product with two major features uncovered in recent code leaks. Though the device launches November 13, neither enhancement has been formally announced yet—yet the software suggests Apple is already preparing significant upgrades.
What’s HomeView?
HomeView is a new smart display from Apple. It’s designed to work with HomeKit and lets users control audio and video apps via their iPhone, including some apps compatible with CarPlay. It’s one of two new Apple Home products set to hit stores this Friday, alongside a revamped Apple TV 4K. Its base functionality is already known, but the leaks indicate Apple’s already hard at work on extras that could boost its utility significantly.
Leaked Features: Security Camera + Third-Party AI
According to localizations found in HomeView’s upcoming 27.2 firmware, Apple is preparing to enable HomeView to function as a HomeKit security camera. The code reveals new HomeKit Secure Video-related settings and privacy protections meant to support this role—suggesting that the hardware could double as a surveillance device. However, since Apple hasn’t enabled or publicly confirmed this feature yet, its rollout remains speculative until the company activates it.
The second major feature to emerge relates to artificial intelligence: support for third-party AI conversational apps. In iOS 27.3 beta code, HomeView’s compatibility list has been expanded. Alongside video and audio apps, “conversational apps” are now listed—meaning tools like ChatGPT and Claude could potentially run on HomeView. Apple classifies these apps within its CarPlay third-party app model. As with the security camera functions, these AI features aren’t available at launch, but if enabled they could reshape HomeView’s utility.
Why This Matters
Turning HomeView into a security camera through HomeKit Secure Video capability would place it squarely in competition with smart displays and webcams that offer both interaction and surveillance—especially those that integrate into broader smart home ecosystems. For users who already rely heavily on HomeKit, this could simplify the gadget lineup at home.
The addition of third-party conversational AI apps signals Apple’s growing openness toward integrating external AI tools into its devices. By supporting apps like ChatGPT or Claude, HomeView could transform into a voice-driven hub rather than just a passive display. This could mark a shift in how Apple imagines AI interaction across its hardware lineup.
Apple still hasn’t officially confirmed either feature, and it’s possible one or both may never activate. But these leaks paint a picture of what HomeView could become after launch—a more versatile smart hub capable of handling security and AI tasks. For buyers considering whether HomeView hits the sweet spot, these potential updates could tip the balance. Watch for software releases in the coming months to see if these rumored features become reality.
