In the ever-evolving realm of smart home technology, Apple is once again making headlines as speculations surrounding the upcoming HomePod model, codenamed B720, gain momentum. The buzz centers around a distinctive feature – a curved LCD display, a departure from the conventional design.
The information comes from “Kosutami,” a reputable Apple leaker and prototype collector known for credible insights into the tech giant’s upcoming releases. According to Kosutami, the B720 shares the design DNA of its predecessor but introduces a noteworthy addition – a curved, convex LCD screen atop the HomePod.
Back in October, Kosutami treated enthusiasts to a visual teaser, sharing images of component parts purportedly belonging to a prototype touch screen HomePod. Collaborative reports at the time lent credibility to these images, suggesting a genuine glimpse into Apple’s innovative pipeline.
The most intriguing aspect of this new feature is its purpose – Apple is allegedly gearing up to integrate Apple Music and Apple Podcasts seamlessly with the curved display. Imagine a HomePod that not only fills your space with crystal-clear audio but also offers a visual treat. When a song or podcast is in session, the LCD screen is rumored to showcase a dynamic, blurred animation inspired by the colors of the album art. Additionally, the screen may serve as a canvas for important notifications, enhancing the overall user experience.
This latest revelation aligns with earlier hints dropped by reliable sources. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hinted at Apple’s endeavors to incorporate displays and cameras into HomePods back in 2021. Furthermore, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo added fuel to the fire earlier this year by predicting the release of a redesigned HomePod, complete with a 7-inch display, in the first half of 2024.
Looking beyond the immediate future, Apple appears to be orchestrating a broader shift in its smart home strategy. Gurman suggests that Apple is actively developing a multifunctional device merging Apple TV and HomePod capabilities. Moreover, whispers of a HomePod equipped with a screen mounted on a robotic arm have piqued the curiosity of tech enthusiasts, hinting at groundbreaking possibilities on the horizon.
