HomePod
Apple’s HomePod was the company’s first foray into the smart speaker market. But you’ve probably noticed that, as of the writing of this article, it’s also Apple’s last foray. Nearly two and a half years after the HomePod’s announcement, it’s high time that Apple releases a predecessor — or at least something similar to the HomePod.
That’s especially true in the wake of rivals like the Amazon Echo Plus and Google Home Max. The things that made HomePod special when it first debuted are no longer unique. Apple needs to innovate in this space to stay relevant. And with a move toward services, other HomePod devices would line up with the company’s larger plans.
As far as what Apple could debut, something like a “HomePod mini” with a lower price tag but more robust smart home features could boost both Apple Music, as well as Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem. Aiming solely at the premium tier is no longer going to work in the smart speaker market.