Apple appears to be exploring the idea of integrating a screen into its smart speaker, and recent rumors suggest this could be a feature of the upcoming HomePod 3.
This information comes from a prominent Apple enthusiast, @KosutamiSan, who shared images on the social network formerly known as Twitter. These images purportedly showcase a prototype speaker device that Apple has been actively developing.
Sources close to the matter, as reported by 9to5Mac, have revealed that this prototype, codenamed B720, is still under development. However, Apple has not yet made a final decision regarding its potential launch.
Notably, the 9to5Mac report highlights adjustments made to certain tvOS apps, enabling them to run on screens with different aspect ratios. This development is significant because the existing HomePods operate on a modified version of tvOS.
This isn’t the first time rumors have surfaced about Apple introducing a smart display as part of the HomePod lineup. Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously predicted in March that a HomePod with a display could be expected sometime in 2024.
This story traces back even further to February 2022 when Siri appeared to hint at a HomePod display, before the unveiling of HomePod 2 in January 2023. However, HomePod 2’s design closely resembled the original HomePod, without a screen.
Nevertheless, it seems evident that Apple is at least contemplating the addition of a smart display to its product range. Industry rivals like Amazon and Google have already incorporated screens into their smart speakers. Given Apple’s expertise in both hardware and software, a HomePod with a screen is a compelling possibility to watch for in the future.
