LCD-screen Apple HomePod is seen for the first time
The much-anticipated LCD-screen Apple HomePod has finally been seen in a real photo.
The tech world is buzzing with speculation as recent leaks suggest Apple might be on the verge of introducing a new HomePod variant, one with a screen. A prototype of this new iteration, revealing a large touchscreen sensor situated at its top, was brought to light by a leaker identified as “Kosutami”. Given Kosutami’s track record of providing credible pre-launch details about Apple products in the past, there's a strong possibility that these images are authentic. Furthermore, 9to5Mac, a reputable outlet, has affirmed the legitimacy of these images via its channels.
LCD-screen Apple HomePod is seen for the first time
This potential game-changer for Apple's smart home products is currently recognized internally as B720. The display panel of the prototype HomePod depicted an application named LcdUTest, which is believed to be an in-house tool utilized by Apple engineers to gauge the capabilities of this new display.
Insider sources also hint that Apple is in the process of adapting certain tvOS applications to ensure they're compatible with this new HomePod screen. Apple Music and Apple Podcasts are reportedly the initial applications undergoing this revamp. One can expect to see a dynamic blurred animation, derived from the color tones of album artwork, playing in the backdrop when a song or podcast is in progress.
Previous whisperings about a HomePod equipped with a display aren't new. Eminent reporter Mark Gurman and Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo both alluded to such developments in the recent past, with Kuo even going on to predict that a revamped HomePod featuring a 7-inch display might see the light of day in early 2024.
Details regarding the additional features and pricing of this speculated HomePod remain murky. However, one thing is evident: Apple seems poised to elevate its smart home offerings. A screen-integrated HomePod might be their strategic move to not only distinguish their products from competitors but also to enhance user experience.