Tomorrow evening, Apple will most likely present the iPhone 12 series and the HomePod mini. It remains to be seen whether a new Apple TV model will also be unveiled. But there are more details regarding the U1 chip.
Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a short-range, low-power wireless technology that allows for very precise location determination, especially indoors. The so-called U1 chip was originally introduced in the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro. The absence of the component in the 2020 iPad Pro and the second iPhone SE raised doubts about the chip's future - until it was recently included in the Apple Watch Series 6. Meanwhile, observers believe that the addition of the U1 chip to the Apple Watch Series 6 proves Apple's continued commitment to the technology and serves as an indication that the chip will have a much greater importance within the Apple ecosystem in the future.
U1 chip: Trigger HomeKit actions, create new AR possibilities
Now leaker Jon Prosser has again expressed and cited the HomePod mini and a new Apple TV as examples. Prosser believes that the HomePod mini and the new Apple TV will serve as UWB base stations. These should be able to precisely track any device with a U1 chip. This should trigger HomeKit actions and create new AR possibilities. The new location tracking could enable HomeKit to independently lock doors, turn lights on and off, and more. While the presentation of the HomePod mini could take place as early as tomorrow, it remains to be seen whether a new Apple TV model will also be introduced. The "Hi, Speed" event will take place at 7:00 p.m. in Germany and can be viewed via Apple's website, YouTube or on Apple TV. (Image: Apple)
