The HomeView’s speakers make it a solid choice for music, podcasts, and other audio entertainment. But despite its sharp and vivid display, the device is not suitable for watching videos. But that’s okay, because right now the only video app available on HomeView is Apple TV. And unless you like watching your shows within a thin band that sits in the middle of a square screen, flanked by thick black bars at the top and bottom, you, too, will find the video experience on HomeView disappointing. However, I’d love to see Apple bring F1 multi-view to this screen, placing two small alternate feeds below the main feed. Yes, they would be small, but at least this way you make better use of space and eliminate the uncomfortable black bars. HomeView runs on the same platform as CarPlay, which is why the various video streaming apps you have on your iPhone don’t appear on this device. Apple says third-party developers can enable their apps for use in HomeView, but doing so would also mean optimizing them for CarPlay. Only time will tell if the developers will take the additional steps to make that happen. However, when it comes to audio-only content, HomeView is excellent. I’d rate the sound quality here as midway between the HomePod mini and the larger HomePod. I’ve been reviewing the tabletop HomeView with a stand, so I enjoyed the added woofer and passive radiators, which balance the full-range drivers with additional bass. Across a variety of genres, bass is tight and punchy, and vocals cut through the mix with clarity. The system also never misses other instruments, as you can easily play the guitars on Anberlin’s “Gravity.” Switch to something more laid-back, like Sam Barber’s “If I May,” and the acoustic instruments will lay the foundation for the singer’s unique voice. The drums are more subdued here and HomeView does well to prevent them from dominating the mix. I should also note that HomeView can be quite noisy. I measured 87 dB with my Apple Watch right in front of the device. But I must also warn you that it is not a comfortable listening volume if you are close to the screen. It might be nice for a party, but you’ll probably stick around 50 percent or less for the most part. Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos is available in HomeView for compatible music, movies and shows. However, given the device’s compact stature and limited sonic prowess, you’re more likely to notice the excellent overall clarity and unbiased tuning than any dimensional effects. While watching an episode of Masters of the Air, for example, I found the sound perfectly fine, but I wouldn’t classify it as very immersive. Apple included a few more entertainment-related conveniences in HomeView that add utility. For one, it works with HomePod, HomePod mini, and AirPlay-enabled speakers for multi-room audio, letting you play the same thing everywhere or choose specific songs for each room. When listening to Apple Music songs, you’ll see animated album artwork if an artist has them, and lyrics are available with a single tap. And just like you can with your iPhone and HomePod speakers, you can transfer content from your phone to HomeView simply by holding your phone in front of the screen.
