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Rumor: Apple may release lower-priced HomePod in second half of 2018

The rumor mill has it that Apple could not only release a cheaper MacBook Air and a cheaper iPad this year, but could also release a more affordable HomePod as well. A recent report suggests that the cheaper HomePod could launch in the United States in the second half of 2018 for approximately $150 to […]

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Amazon Fun HomePod News

Assorted Alexa-based devices have begun laughing at their users

Even though the HomePod may leave something to be desired in its current incarnation (wood-stained rings included), a number of Amazon’s Echo Alexa units have begun laughing at their owners. Following customer complaints of creepy, unprompted laughs coming from inside Alexa devices, Amazon has confirmed that it is aware of the feature issue and is […]

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AirPods Apple Watch Bluetooth Hardware HomePod iPad iPhone Rumor Wearables

Rumor: Apple working on second-gen AirPods featuring “Hey Siri” support for release in 2018

Apple is apparently working on a second-gen series of AirPods which could include “Hey Siri” support instead of requiring a tap before giving voice commands. The new model will also sport an updated wireless chip for improved Bluetooth connections. Sources close to the story have stated that Apple is looking to update the iPods in […]

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Hardware HomePod iPhone News

TechInsights estimates HomePod manufacturing costs around $216 per unit, Apple aiming for lower profit margin than found on iPhone line

The guesstimates are in and it looks like Apple shells out $216 to build each HomePod unit, meaning margins from the tech giant’s first smart speaker are much slimmer than those of its flagship iPhone line. If the estimate is correct, this means Apple generates a profit margin around 38 percent with each $349 HomePod […]

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Hardware HomePod News

Apple confirms that HomePod may leave white rings on wooden surfaces with oil or wax finish

As nifty as the HomePod may be, it can possibly leave white rings on wood surfaces with an oil or wax finish. The discovery was noted in reviews by Wirecutter and Pocket-lint as well as highlighted by VentureBeat, with at least one user sharing the problem on Twitter. Pocket-lint’s Stuart Miles offered the following statement […]