Apple unveils HomeView hub, new Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini 2, and reports iPhone Duo pre-order delays

Apple announced a new smart-home hub called HomeView during its "Welcome home" product launch. The $299 device features a 7-inch Liquid Retina display, Siri AI integration, and supports multiple users, Photos faces, Apple Music playlists and FaceTime calls. It is offered in tabletop and wall-mounted versions, with pre-orders open and a launch scheduled for November 13.

The company also revealed the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, the first major update in four years. Powered by an A19 chip, the set adds Siri AI support, built-in microphones for hands-free commands, and a redesigned Siri Remote that includes Find My precision locating and a speaker. The new Apple TV 4K is priced at $299 and will be available for pre-order ahead of a November 13 release.

Apple introduced a second-generation HomePod mini, priced at $149. The speaker incorporates an S10 chip for advanced computational audio and a "Sound Glow" visual feature that synchronises lighting with music. While Siri AI functionality will be added later via software update, the device is set for pre-order with an October 30 launch date.

Pre-orders for the iPhone Duo opened on Friday in several countries. Initial delivery estimates quickly shifted, and U.S. customers now see a projected arrival in late January 2027, roughly three months later than earlier expectations. Apple has not confirmed the amount of inventory that will be available in retail stores for the October 23 launch, and secondary-market sellers have begun listing the device at premium prices.

Apple has also invited media representatives to a launch experience on October 28, where additional products such as new MacBook models with OLED displays, updated iMacs, entry-level MacBook Pros with the M6 chip, and an iPad mini with an OLED screen are expected to be showcased.