Apple HomeView Smart Display Impresses but Raises Family Privacy Questions

Apple's HomeView smart display delivers strong performance as a home hub and kitchen companion, but its dual role as a shared device and personal iPhone extension introduces privacy challenges. The device offers fast smart home controls, a clear 7-inch touchscreen, and useful features like guided cooking and Siri AI, but family members can see each other's text messages, which may deter some households.

The tabletop version costs $299 and includes a USB-C cable, while wall mounting requires a separate mount and power adapter, pushing the total to around $400. The display supports Apple Home and Matter devices, with a Thread radio for quick responses. Sound quality is good for its size, though the wall-mounted model has one less speaker.

Cooking with HomeView is a highlight: users can hand off recipes from their iPhone, follow step-by-step instructions, and ask Siri AI for ingredient substitutions. The device also integrates timers, phone calls, and music playback through Live Activities. However, the HomeView cannot use its 12MP camera as a motion sensor for automations, and it only controls Apple Home-compatible devices.

The biggest drawback is the way personal data is handled. The HomeView shows texts, calendars, and reminders from any linked iPhone on the same Wi-Fi network, and switching between personal and shared modes involves clunky authentication checks. One reviewer noted being able to read their teenage daughter's text messages, which led her to say she would just use her iPhone instead. In contrast, a tech-averse husband loved the device and wanted one for his office.