Apple plans HomeView update after Joanna Stern’s criticism

Apple plans to change HomeView next month after journalist Joanna Stern challenged a restriction that prevents users from using voice commands to unlock doors or open garage doors. Apple told Stern the software update will expand those controls, according to her account.

Corp and Tech·November 12, 2026·reads: 1,272

The restriction appears to stem from a concern that someone outside a home could shout a command and trigger the device. Stern said Apple acknowledged to her that the concern was “a bit silly” and said the update would open up the feature.