A further source has doubled down on rumors of Apple planning a larger HomeView, this time which can automatically swivel on its base.
Even back in 2024, it was being reported that what would become the HomeView would be followed by a larger model. It was consistently also rumored that this version would have a robot-like arm that moved its screen 360 degrees to follow the user.
Now The Information is mostly repeating those rumors and also echoing more recent reports saying the larger model will launch in 2027. Where it differs is in that it believes it may be pushed back to 2028, and also that the hardware design has already "been finished for around two years."
The report also refers to a prototype being ready, which suggests that the device has not yet gone to manufacturing. It has previously been claimed that manufactured HomeView devices have been waiting years in warehouses for the release of the improved Siri AI before launching.
While this report doesn't go so far as to say hardware is waiting, it does claim that Apple actually began working on the project in 2019. Initially it was intended as a FaceTime device, but the idea of giving it a movable arm was followed by plans to add AI features to it.
Reportedly, there have been disagreements within Apple over the mix of software and hardware features in the initial release. While it's not known what those particular features are, they are reportedly being considered for a second or subsequent generation of the device.
Now this larger model is said to feature more cameras and sensors. So the arm could move to follow a user, with a greater range than Center Stage, but also be aware of obstructions.
The report says that the larger device may be called a HomeView Ultra or a HomeView Max. It is said to feature a nine-inch display, as compared to the six-inch one of the first model.
Reportedly, Apple is aiming to sell the larger HomeView for $1,000. The current first-generation model retails for $299.
