Apple’s HomeView is available today and we’re finally learning all the little details about the new hub. We’ve put together a list of information for those setting up a HomeView or considering getting one.
Sunglasses
Apple says HomeView likely won’t recognize you if your face is covered, including when you’re wearing sunglasses. If HomeView doesn’t identify you, Apple suggests removing anything that might prevent the camera from seeing your face.
The HomeView’s screen must be tilted toward your face, you must be centered in frame and closest to the camera if other people are nearby, and the HomeView cannot be blocked by overhanging shelves and cabinets. Apple says HomeView needs front-facing, even light.
Mirror
There is a “mirror” in the HomeView control center that allows you to use the camera to see yourself. There is an option to turn on an edge light to illuminate the face, as well as 1x and 2x zoom.
Guest Checks
The HomeView owner has several options as to what guests can access.
- Safari may be turned on or off, or adult websites may be blocked.
- By default, guests can use Siri for general knowledge, writing help, and math help, but Siri features can be turned off.
- Explicit content can be enabled or disabled.
- There is an option to choose which Apple Music subscription provides music to an unrecognized user.
Wi-Fi/cellular
The HomeView authenticates people using facial recognition and ensuring their iOS device is nearby, recently unlocked, and on the same Wi-Fi network as the HomeView. In the event of a Wi-Fi outage, Apple says cellular can also be used to unlock personal content as long as it’s in the same location and was recently connected to the Wi-Fi network.
Sleep timer
You can set a sleep timer on HomeView to pause currently playing media when the timer goes off.
No buttons
There is no button to turn HomeView on or off, or restart it. It can be restarted from the Settings app or by briefly unplugging it.
Connections
You can sign in to websites and apps using your iPhone, similar to how Apple TV works.
Notifications
The HomeView only offers notifications for phone calls and home devices, with an option to enable critical notifications. There are no other settings or notification options.
Liquid glass
The transparency of the Liquid Glass interface can be adjusted from clear to opaque like on iPhone, iPad and Mac.
Locking personal data
If someone repeatedly attempts to access personal content on HomeView that requires authentication, facial recognition through the camera is disabled and you will need to prove your identity with a registered device.
Gn tech
