Apple is working on a new Apple TV with a built-in HomePod and camera for video calling. It is still unknown when the new media box should be released. Apple would also tinker with an innovative speaker with an iPad arm.
Rumor: Apple TV is getting HomePod and camera
It’s usually reliable Bloomberg writes that Apple is working on an entirely new product. The smart home device should become a cross between an Apple TV and HomePod.
According to Bloomberg, the media player can do everything that the current Apple TV can, including extra options. The new setup box would include a built-in HomePod speaker for playing music.
Thanks to the internal FaceTime camera, you should also be able to make video calls with it. Bloomberg also writes that you can use the device as a camera to keep an eye on things when you are away from home.
It is still unclear when the product will be released. According to Bloomberg, development is currently at an early stage. It is therefore possible that Apple will never release the next evolution of the Apple TV. Nothing is known yet about a price tag either.
HomePod with iPad arm in the making
Bloomberg also writes that Apple is currently working on an innovative HomePod speaker with a robotic arm. An iPad would be attached to that. This robotic arm can monitor users during video calling as they move around the room.
According to Bloomberg, this is a “high-end” version of the HomePod. This high-quality speaker with screen and microphone has to compete with smart home market leaders such as Amazon and Google.
The HomePod / iPad combination should look something like the Echo 10, a smart speaker from Amazon. This has a tablet screen that you can use for video calling, for example.
Bloomberg writes that the development of this device is also still in an early phase. So the question is whether the HomePod with iPad arm will ever really come out.
Restless around the HomePod
Apple seems to have big plans for the HomePod. Recently, a rumor came out that the company would be working on a smart speaker with a screen, similar to the Google Nest Hub. You can use this, for example, as a photo frame, or to watch YouTube videos.
The original HomePod came out in 2018 and is no longer made. Apple has stopped production and is completely focused on the HomePod mini. Just like the original HomePod, this more compact speaker is not sold in the Netherlands. You can buy the HomePod mini here via gray import.
More about the HomePod mini
In our HomePod mini review we write that the compact speaker is especially interesting for real Apple fans. The mini only works with other products of the company, such as the iPhone, iPad and Mac. If you also use Android stuff, it is better to leave the HomePod mini as far as we are concerned.
→ Read more in our HomePod mini review