Apple’s upcoming HomeView smart home hub may eventually support third-party AI chatbots, letting users interact with services like ChatGPT and Claude directly from the device.
Code discovered in the iOS 27.3 beta reveals early preparations for a new “Conversational Apps” category within HomeView’s software, just days before the $299 device goes on sale November 13.
Apple hasn’t announced the feature, and there’s no indication it will be available at launch.
HomeView Software Hints at Third-Party AI Chatbots
HomeView doesn’t have a traditional App Store. Instead, it displays a curated selection of compatible apps from a paired iPhone or iPad, using an interface similar to CarPlay.
The latest beta adds a Conversational Apps category to that system, alongside preliminary support for two-way audio, managing conversations, and handling interruptions.
Those additions suggest Apple is exploring how conversational AI apps could work on HomeView, potentially allowing users to speak with third-party assistants through the hub.
However, the underlying functionality remains incomplete. The code doesn’t identify supported apps or establish when Apple might enable the feature.
It’s also unclear whether services like ChatGPT or Claude would qualify, although both seem likely given the conversational nature of their apps.
Apple Is Adding Protection Against Face Spoofing
Separate findings reveal additional security measures for HomeView’s facial recognition system.
The device can recognize up to six household members and display personalized information when their paired iPhone is nearby and recently unlocked.
To prevent someone from fooling the system with a photo or other imitation, HomeView requires iPhone authentication after three failed face-spoofing attempts.
That protection is already active in HomeView software version 27.2.
Apple is also developing a more restrictive lockout system for repeated failures.
Under the proposed rules, the first lockout can be cleared immediately, while subsequent lockouts introduce longer waiting periods:
- Second lockout: One hour
- Third lockout: Four hours
- Fourth and subsequent lockouts: Eight hours
These delays aren’t active yet. For now, users can clear a lockout immediately by authenticating through their iPhone.
What HomeView Will Offer at Launch
HomeView arrives November 13 in tabletop and wall-mounted versions, both featuring a 7-inch Liquid Retina display.
The $299 hub combines smart home controls with personalized information and entertainment features.
Its built-in capabilities include Apple Music, Apple TV, FaceTime with Center Stage, Calendar, Reminders, and Find My.
Users can also view live feeds from up to nine security cameras, receive smoke and carbon monoxide sound alerts, and follow step-by-step recipes.
Siri AI conversations can continue across compatible Apple devices through the Siri app.
HomeView won’t initially be available in the European Union because Siri AI remains unavailable in the region. Apple is working with regulators on a potential rollout.
For now, third-party chatbot support remains an unannounced possibility rather than a confirmed HomeView feature.
