The rumor: Apple once planned a HomePod that wasn’t restricted to the home, according to Mark Gurman (87% accurate, via Power On).
- “Years ago, Apple internally discussed and prototyped a battery-powered smart speaker, but I would be surprised if one ever launches under the Apple brand” Gurman says
- Apple recently discontinued the Beats Pill+ which was the last battery-powered speaker that they sold…the only option now is HomePod mini
Our take: Why Apple canceled this is beyond me. There are very few great Bluetooth speakers and I think Apple’s audio team could nail it. In the meantime, I’d recommend the Roam from Sonos.
