Apple's work on a new combined HomePod and Apple TV device has not yet been completed, according to a new report.
As previously reported, repeated Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman that the new device will have 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. Competition for speakers with screens is already fierce. Apple launched a HomePod mini speaker last year and unveiled a small update to the Apple TV set-top box last month.
The focus is on the combined HomePod/Apple TV device
The report suggests that the new combined HomePod device will be a much more significant evolution of the Apple TV line, given the fairly minor update to the Apple TV 4K announced last month. 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 apparently put on hold after the larger HomePod was discontinued entirely in March. The company now seems to be focusing on this new combined HomePod-Apple TV product instead. When the device will debut remains unclear, though. (Photo by franky242 / Bigstockphot)
