Apple is preparing to expand its smart home lineup with a new product in the coming days. The star of the company's "Welcome home" event on October 13 will be a screen-equipped smart home control hub.

Just days before the announcement, the device's name has leaked. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reports that the product will arrive under the name HomeView.

What will HomeView do?

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HomeView is designed to let users control Apple-compatible smart home devices from a single point. Through both Siri voice commands and the Home app, users will be able to manage lighting, security and other smart hardware.

According to Gurman, the device won't offer a full tablet-style touch experience, instead focusing on voice commands and Siri interaction. For that reason, HomeView won't have access to the App Store and will work only with a limited number of built-in Apple apps.

Why the "View" name?

Apple's choice of the "View" suffix over a name like "HomePad" is a deliberate strategy. With this name, the company wants to signal directly to users that the product has a screen and serves as a control hub.

Two different versions are coming

HomeView will launch in two options depending on the use case. The first is a version with a metal speaker base that can be placed on a desk or countertop. This model will come in space gray, silver, starlight and pink color options.

The second option is a wall-mountable model, which will be sold only in space gray and silver. Although the device will be officially unveiled on October 13, it is expected to hit shelves in mid-November.