Gurman: Combined HomePod/Apple TV Device Remains in Early Development

Apple's work on a new combined HomePod and Apple TV device is ongoing, according to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman.

HomePod With Screen and Arm FaceTime Feature 2
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, HomePod, HomePod mini

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Top Rated Comments

Superdrive Avatar
47 months ago
I’ve never used any of my HomePods and thought, “Gee, I wish this had a screen.” Bring me that shelved 2022 HomePod instead.
Score: 20 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Dydegu Avatar
47 months ago
That G4 design is pretty dope.
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BWhaler Avatar
47 months ago
These are the worst mock-ups of all time.
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
fwmireault Avatar
47 months ago
A combinated homepod and Apple TV could be interesting. But I have 0 interest to have a screen on my smart speakers. I already have iPhone and iPad for that
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
rgwebb Avatar
47 months ago
I had 2 HomePods and an Apple TV 4K in my entertainment center and the home theater functionality was a substantial upgrade from the decade or more old soundbar+woofer connected to the television over HDMI ARC. I got the new Apple TV 4K and was pleasantly surprised by the ARC/eARC feature added to the home theater functionality. Now I get better audio on all the other inputs too.

I have little doubt that if Apple made a purpose built entertainment center homepod that it would compete favorably with the comparable Sonos offerings but have the advantage of ecosystem fit for those already knee-deep into Apple products.

I've said this elsewhere: the problem with the original homepod was not that it was a bad product but that it was a bad product for the home assistant market they were targeting. The homepod is actually a very compelling product for the home entertainment center.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Appleman3546 Avatar
47 months ago
It makes sense for Apple to combine the two expensive hobbies into one expensive hobby. Both have floundered separately, so maybe it could be unique enough when they are together?
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)