Apple announced smart home devices centered on its new device, "HomeView." The Japan launch timing has not been decided, and the company indicated a strategy centered on Siri AI and HomeKit.
The article organizes the 3 directions announced by Apple. First, under the "Updates" category, HomePod mini 2 and Apple TV 4K (4th generation) are covered, and both are expected to launch. Next, HomeView, a fixed display device, is introduced as a "new direction," although its Japan sales timing has not been disclosed. Finally, a group of devices jointly provided with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric is presented as the "Apple Home Collection," and its future rollout is attracting attention.
HomeView is a display device priced at $299 that can be mounted on a wall or placed on a desk. It runs Siri AI and supports HomeKit, but does not support the App Store, reflecting a design philosophy similar to that of other companies' smart displays. This is viewed as making smart home integration beyond a voice remote more realistic.
Regarding its rollout in Japan, the article notes that preparations for Siri AI and the need to adapt it to the local market may be factors. While the assumed strategy is to establish a foothold primarily in the United States before expanding into the Japanese market sequentially, the need for localization suited to conditions in Japan has also been highlighted. The launch timing for Apple Home Collection in Japan has not been decided, and a flexible rollout taking local circumstances into account is expected.