We thought we'd highlight all of the different speaker rumors that we've heard so far, because Apple seems to be testing multiple different ideas for the future features of the smart speaker.
We may be waiting a bit longer for some of the more fanciful features that we've seen rumored.
In order to focus on the more popular HomePod mini, Apple discontinued the original full-sized HomePod in 2021.
Mark Gurman said in 2020 that Apple is working on a bigger version of the HomePod than the mini. There is an option for those who want something bigger than the mini but not as expensive as the first one.
The speaker would be more expensive than the mini, but it would be more affordable.
According to an Apple analyst, there may not be much innovation in hardware design for the new HomePod, but he did not give details on the size. It's possible that he was talking about the same design as Gurman, but with a lower price point.
The same processor that's in the Apple Watch Series 8 could be used in the new HomePod, as well as a multi-touch display on the top.
Gurman says the larger HomePod is on track for a 2023 launch and that the new HomePod could come out in late 2022.
If the rumors are correct, we could see a new option for the HomePod in the first quarter of 2019. A new speaker announcement by Apple could coincide with the launch of Apple Music Classical, a new Apple Music feature that was supposed to come out in 2022, but didn't.
There is a possibility that Apple could do a refresh of the HomePod mini. There are not expected to be new features or design changes, but updated colors would be easy for Apple to debut. A minor refresh to the HomePod mini is likely to happen at the same time as a new HomePod.
A set-top box with high-end audio capabilities could be created by Apple in the future, according to Mark Gurman.
A connected TV could serve as the screen for video calls with a camera on the device. It would be similar to an Apple TV in that it would offer gaming, streaming content, and music.
It is not yet clear if Apple will move forward with it, but it is a design idea that makes a lot of sense because the HomePod mini and the Apple TV both run the same operating system.
Apple has been experimenting with future designs that could include a screen similar to the Facebook portal, as well as the Goggles Hub Max.
The device that Apple is working on is a high-end speaker connected to an iPad using a robotic arm, according to Mark Gurman. A more advanced version of the Center Stage video feature that Apple has added to some of its products would allow the arm to follow a user around the room when on a video call.
There is a good chance that the iPad / Home Pod hybrid won't see the light of day because it's currently in the conceptualization stages. It could launch with an accessory arm to connect the two, if it comes out.
Over the last few years, Apple has been experimenting with deeper integration between its products. It would not be out of the question for Apple to pair the HomePod and iPad in new ways, since the iPad and Mac can link together to be controlled with one mouse or trackpad and one keyboard.
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