Apple is rumored to be working on a new home accessory, a touchscreen version of the HomePod, which will run on a modified version of tvOS, according to a recent report. This device is expected to feature displays and cameras, a concept long speculated to be in the works. The new HomePod is anticipated to leverage Apple Intelligence, the AI services suite introduced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024.
New HomePod Insights
A report from MacRumors has uncovered references to a new identifier, “HomeAccessory17,1,” in Apple’s backend code, suggesting a HomePod with a touchscreen display. This upcoming device is expected to be powered by the A18 chip, the same chip rumored to be used in the upcoming iPhone 16 series.
Thanks to this chipset, the new HomePod is likely to feature Apple Intelligence capabilities. The device is expected to operate on a variant of tvOS, potentially named homeOS. References to homeOS were reportedly found in a beta version of tvOS 17.4 released in January.
Design and Features
In April, a leak from tipster Kosutami (@Kosutami_Ito) showed an image of the display cover for the rumored HomePod, suggesting it may have a touchscreen LCD screen integrated with the speaker. This screen could display media playback controls and notifications.
This development aligns with predictions from TF Securities International analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who previously suggested that Apple might release a HomePod with a 7-inch touchscreen display in 2024. This device is expected to compete with similar products like Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub. Kuo mentioned that Tianma would be the exclusive supplier for this HomePod model, which was initially expected to launch in the first half of 2024.
Future Prospects
While Apple has not yet launched a similar device, there are still two Apple events planned for this year, leaving room for the potential unveiling of the touchscreen HomePod. This new development underscores Apple’s continued innovation in integrating AI and smart home technologies, potentially setting a new standard in the market for smart home devices.
