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Gurman: Combined HomePod/Apple TV Device Remains in Early Development

Apple's work on a new combined HomePod and Apple TV device is ongoing, according to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman.

HomePod With Screen and Arm FaceTime Feature 2
As has been previously reported, Gurman reiterated that the new device will feature a built-in screen and a camera for FaceTime calls.

As part of its broader home, audio and accessories strategy, Apple has also begun early development of a HomePod speaker with a built-in screen as well as a device that combines the features of a HomePod, FaceTime camera and Apple TV, Bloomberg News has reported. Competition for speakers with screens is already widespread. Apple released a HomePod mini speaker last year and outlined a minor update to the Apple TV set-top box last month.

The report suggests that, given the fairly minor update to the ‌Apple TV‌ 4K that was announced last month, the new combined ‌HomePod‌ device will represent a much more significant advancement in the ‌Apple TV‌ product line.

Gurman has also explained in the past that Apple is exploring a future high-end ‌HomePod‌ speaker that could include an iPad connected via a robotic arm that tracks and follows users around a room.

Apple was planning to release an updated HomePod model in 2022 as a successor to the 2017 ‌HomePod‌, but these plans were apparently shelved after the larger ‌HomePod‌ was outright discontinued. The company now appears to be focusing on this new combined HomePod-Apple TV product instead.

Gurman's report earlier this morning also laid out Apple's plans for third-generation AirPods coming later this year and second-generation AirPods Pro coming in 2022 with health tracking features.

Related Roundups: Apple TV, HomePod, HomePod mini

Top Rated Comments

Superdrive Avatar
63 months ago
I’ve never used any of my HomePods and thought, “Gee, I wish this had a screen.” Bring me that shelved 2022 HomePod instead.
Score: 20 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Dydegu Avatar
63 months ago
That G4 design is pretty dope.
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BWhaler Avatar
63 months ago
These are the worst mock-ups of all time.
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
fwmireault Avatar
63 months ago
A combinated homepod and Apple TV could be interesting. But I have 0 interest to have a screen on my smart speakers. I already have iPhone and iPad for that
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
63 months ago
I had 2 HomePods and an Apple TV 4K in my entertainment center and the home theater functionality was a substantial upgrade from the decade or more old soundbar+woofer connected to the television over HDMI ARC. I got the new Apple TV 4K and was pleasantly surprised by the ARC/eARC feature added to the home theater functionality. Now I get better audio on all the other inputs too.

I have little doubt that if Apple made a purpose built entertainment center homepod that it would compete favorably with the comparable Sonos offerings but have the advantage of ecosystem fit for those already knee-deep into Apple products.

I've said this elsewhere: the problem with the original homepod was not that it was a bad product but that it was a bad product for the home assistant market they were targeting. The homepod is actually a very compelling product for the home entertainment center.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
otternonsense Avatar
63 months ago
Is this the new ToasterFridge?
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
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