Should You be Worried For The Future of HomePod? The Answer Is Difficult To Say Just Yet!
HomePod being discontinued is very sad news as this speaker had amazing sound and was great for tv audio with its recent audio updates to play Dolby atmos. We all know the story of the HomePod, Media comparing it to a £30 alternative, Apple not showcasing its true potential and many more parts. What the statement means when apple discontinues something. I put together some of my thoughts and ideas to the situation after looking at Apple trends in the past.
1. There is definitely not a version 2 of the HomePod we know coming. Apple would have kept hold of the HomePod if there was a updated version on the way. Since they have not only discontinued it but also did it via press release. The HomePod is dead and a HomePod 2 is dead.
2. HomeKit is safe. Apple didn’t make HomeKit for the HomePod. The HomePod was a add on to HomeKit to make it easier to be connected to your home and have great audio inside. HomeKit is stronger than ever with the release of HomePod mini and Thread support. More brands are releasing HomeKit products and with recent HomePod updates to the mini I believe apple is full steam ahead with the idea of having a apple product in every room. They just couldn’t justify that with the the original HomePod.
3. Your existing HomePod is safe FOR NOW. The HomePod is 3 years old and apple usualy keeps updates in the mix for around 6-7 years. But I can’t see Apple announcing major features for a product they no longer sell. I would say apple will keep to HomePod updated until 2022 in line with the HomePod lineup but will eventually be an Airplay 2 speaker with Siri control. I would hold off to the end of this year before freaking out and see what apple holds in the home entertainment area.
Apples official statement -
HomePod mini has been a hit since its debut last fall, offering customers amazing sound, an intelligent assistant, and smart home control all for just $99. We are focusing our efforts on HomePod mini. We are discontinuing the original HomePod, it will continue to be available while supplies last through the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores, and Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple will provide HomePod customers with software updates and service and support through Apple Care.
Apple TV is still a product Apple needs as not all TVs supports airplay or HomeKit and the HomePod mini can’t carry that legacy on its own. I think something in this field is cooking. But it has to play its card right to do what the HomePod failed to do to the mass market. If Apple would have announced the HomePod back in 2017 with 3 speakers like the HomePod mini, Full size HomePod, and an Apple TV integrated speaker/Homepod, They would have buried the competition in the ground. unfortunately that is not the case and we can only hope for better from Apple in the future!
I hope this helps people as much with the current sad news. I love my HomePods and home for something in the future. But stay bright and fingers crossed. Leave your thoughts below