Mark Gurman already has an idea of what the long-term future of the HomePod line will look like from his sources. In the Bloomberg article revealing the HomePod mini’s hidden temperature and humidity sensor, the publisher also hinted that Apple would be develop HomePod models with a screen and a camera
It’s not something we’ll see anytime soon, as apparently Apple was prepar ing a “ HomePod 2 ” to launch in 2022 before deciding to retire the project with its original generation. “
HomePod: from loudspeaker to multifunction home companion?
A HomePod with a screen and a camera would be a direct competitor of the Amazon Echo Show, which our colleagues at Engadget have already analyzed in their time. Such a HomePod can be perfect for video conferencing at strategic points in our house, or they could even serve as surveillance cameras while benefiting from the camera.
In other words, it looks like Apple wants to make HomePod and its sensors more than just speakers. The very name, “ HomePod, ” implies home functions that they don’t necessarily have to stick to audio playback and be a Siri command receiver. We will be attentive to more rumors that may reach us.