Apple is apparently continuing to work on a project that would combine a HomePod-esque speaker, Apple TV functions, and a FaceTime camera, according to noted journalist Mark Gurman.
In the Q&A section of his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman stated he “absolutely” believes a new HomePod is en route that would likely be “at the center of Apple’s approach” to the home.
Gurman first suggested last year that Apple was working on a combined Apple TV with HomePod speaker that has a camera for video calls through a connected television set. In April 2021, Gurman said the device’s other capabilities would include standard Apple TV box functions like watching video and gaming plus smart speaker uses such as playing music and using Apple’s Siri digital assistant.
Around the tie of the original report, the product was said to be in its early stages. Gurman stated that he believes Apple’s plans are still firmly in place.
Apple discontinued the original high-end HomePod in March 2021, and the HomePod mini, which launched in 2020, has been much more popular than the larger version given its lower price point. Gurman stated that he wouldn’t be surprised to see Apple launch another version of the HomePod mini down the line.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.