Apple's future living room strategy is reportedly going to focus on new devices that are a combination of HomePod and Apple TV. We'll show you what that might look like below.
Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman has reported several times that Apple is working on new products that will connect to the HomePod and Apple TV. As part of its broader home, audio and accessories strategy, Apple has begun developing a HomePod speaker with an integrated Apple TV, as well as a device that combines the functions of a HomePod, a FaceTime camera and an Apple TV. The competition for speakers with a screen is already fierce. Apple launched a HomePod mini speaker last year and introduced a small update to the Apple TV set-top box in April.
HomePod/Apple TV combinations – this is what they could look like
The report at the time suggested that the new combined HomePod device would represent a much more significant evolution of the Apple TV product line, given the relatively small update to the Apple TV 4K that was announced in April. Concept designer Eric Huismann has now revealed what the whole thing could look like. shown. A device similar to a soundbar is being introduced under the name HomePod TV. The product could have better audio than most TV soundbars, support Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio, and more.
In relation to the current rumors, Huismann has designed another concept. The so-called HomePod Show combines a HomePod and Apple TV with a built-in display that should enable FaceTime calls. This device could offer better audio than the current HomePod mini and also support Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio. In addition, the integration of a 1080p camera with a high-resolution display would be conceivable. Both concepts are based - as already mentioned - on previous statements by Mark Gurman.
Gurman has also stated 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 the user around a room. Apple originally planned to release an updated HomePod model in 2022 as a successor to the 2017 HomePod. But those plans were reportedly put on hold after the larger HomePod was discontinued entirely in March. The company now seems to be focusing on these new combined HomePod-Apple TV products instead. A possible debut could come as early as 2022 - but this is not certain. (Concept: Eric Huismann)
