Apple’s HomePod has been around since 2017, and while the regular version of the smart speaker was discontinued by 2021, rumors have been going around that the company is working on a combo of the iPad, Apple TV, and HomePod with a single device. Now, there is more information regarding the matter, as renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently reported that Apple will be debuting a redesigned HomePod with a built-in 7-inch display come early 2024.
This updated HomePod model is expected to look different that the discontinued one, according to Kuo, with the underlying reason of the new features being added being to permit a tighter integration with the other Apple products. The large 7-inch display will be provided by the Chinese manufacturer Tianma. Bloomberg reported earlier in the year that Apple had been concepting a slew of new ideas, with one of them being the all-in-one device of sorts that combines the functions of the iPad, Apple TV, and HomePod, much like the rare Amazon Echo Show.
It still remains to be seen if the upcoming HomePod with a 7-inch display is going to be a separate release, or simply a version of the device with a screen to display settings, media controls, and other relevant information. There were devices imagined in 2020 that had the HomePod base with a display on the top, so this may be the case.
What do you think about Apple implementing a different device type than the original HomePod, but with a screen for added functionality? Do you think it will be effective? Let us know in the comments below!
