Apple’s work on a new combined HomePod and Apple TV device is ongoing, according to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman.
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, tvOS 14, HomePod, HomePod miniTag: bloomberg.comBuyer’s Guide: Apple TV (Buy Now), HomePod (Don’t Buy), HomePod Mini (Buy Now)Related Forums: Apple TV and Home Theater, HomePod, HomeKit, CarPlay, Home & Auto TechnologyThis article, “Gurman: Combined HomePod/Apple TV Device Remains in Early Development” first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
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Author: Hartley Charlton