Tag: homepod

  • HomePod isn’t dead: Apple working on new versions with ‘screens and cameras’

    HomePod isn’t dead: Apple working on new versions with ‘screens and cameras’

    The rumor: Apple isn’t anywhere close to throwing in the towel on the HomePod line just yet, according to Mark Gurman (89.1% accurate).

    • Apple is reportedly working on new HomePod “speakers with screens and cameras” but also notes that they aren’t coming out for some time
    • Prior to last week’s discontinuation, Apple was planning an updated version of HomePod for release sometime in 2022

    Our take: As critical as I have been of HomePod and HomePod mini, I want Apple to continue to make an effort in the home. It would be fascinating to see what these prototypes look like, because right now I’m just picturing an iPad-speaker of sorts. Doesn’t seem like these next speakers are coming out for at least a year or two, though.

  • HomePod mini has a secret temperature and humidity sensor

    HomePod mini has a secret temperature and humidity sensor

    The news: Apple could enable new HomePod mini functionality through a software update, according to Mark Gurman (89.1% accurate).

    • iFixit has discovered a hidden temperature and humidity sensor inside
    • Gurman speculates Apple could enable new functionality for smart thermostats via a software update in the future
    • The original HomePod was just discontinued last week

    Our take: It’s super interesting to the that we’re just now learning about this hidden sensor. Gurman is pretty strategic with the way he shares scoops, though, so perhaps this software update is coming pretty soon?

  • Apple discontinues the original HomePod

    Apple discontinues the original HomePod

    The news: In an odd move from the company, Apple has discontinued the original HomePod as first reported by TechCrunch.

    • In a statement, Apple said “HomePod mini has been a hit since its debut last fall, offering customers amazing sound, an intelligent assistant, and smart home control all for just $99. We are focusing our efforts on HomePod mini. We are discontinuing the original HomePod, it will continue to be available while supplies last through the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores, and Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple will provide HomePod customers with software updates and service and support through Apple Care.”
    • HomePod was originally released in February 2018 after numerous delays

    Our take: I’ve always seen the HomePod as a good but overpriced speaker, and it’s clear that the market felt the same way. Sure, the sound was impressive, but it was hard to justify so much for a speaker that was significantly more locked down and niche than something like a Sonos One. RIP HomePod.

  • Apple considering mid-range HomePod model

    Apple considering mid-range HomePod model

    The rumor: Following the recent announcement of HomePod mini, Apple is considering a mid-range model to fill the gap, according to Mark Gurman (88.3% accurate).

    • The new HomePod would be situated “in size, price and sound quality” between HomePod mini ($99) and HomePod ($299)
    • Gurman also says Apple could ultimately cancel this new model in favor of further price cuts to the highest-end HomePod

    Our take: For a product line that has struggled to sell well for so long, I don’t think anyone is asking for or is interested in a third HomePod model. The HomePod has potential to be a great smart speaker, but a third model doesn’t seem like a good move.

  • HomePod mini announced: Siri, U1 chip and ‘Intercom’

    HomePod mini announced: Siri, U1 chip and ‘Intercom’

    The news: Apple just announced a new, smaller version of the HomePod called HomePod mini.

    • There’s a huge touch screen on the top of the device, complimenting the white and Space Gray finishes
    • The audio array has been completely redesigned to fit inside the new body
    • A U1 chip inside works directly with the U1 chip inside your iPhone
  • HomePod mini revealed, here’s your first look

    HomePod mini revealed, here’s your first look

    The news: Ahead of the October event in just an hour, we have our first official look at HomePod mini, courtesy of serial-leaker Evan Blass.

    • There’s a larger touch screen on the top of the HomePod mini, similar to the original
    • Space Gray and White are the two available colors

    Our take: I like it. Looks sharper than I expected. Glad Apple chose a slightly different design than just a carbon copy of the existing HomePod.

  • HomePod mini coming at October event for $99

    HomePod mini coming at October event for $99

    The leak: Apple’s smaller HomePod is set to be announced at next week’s October special event, according to the all-knowing Kang 康总 (97.8% accurate).

    • The mini version of the HomePod sits only 3.3 inches tall
    • Powering the lower-end speaker will be the Apple S5 processor
    • Pre-orders may begin on November 6 with orders arriving on November 16

    Our take: Kang 康总 has nailed almost every detail of the past few Apple events down to the tee. I would consider these details confirmed.

  • ‘HomePod mini’ may be the only new HomePod this year

    ‘HomePod mini’ may be the only new HomePod this year

    The rumor: Apple has no plans to update the full-size HomePod in 2020, according to L0vetodream (88.7% accurate).

    • Instead, Apple will be releasing a smaller, ‘mini’ version of the existing HomePod that is lower-cost and more portable
    • The original HomePod was last updated (and released) in February 2018

    Our take: I’ve been in the market for a portable speaker for at least three years now, but I still haven’t pulled the trigger on anything yet. This seems like the perfect product for me, so long as the price point is sub-$249.

    https://twitter.com/L0vetodream/status/1313678039360831494?s=20