According to recent reports, Apple’s redesigned HomePod featuring a display is nearing its release.

      Apple has recently unveiled a new iPhone, two new iPads, and two new Macs. Following these announcements, the company is preparing to launch the iPhone 17 series and, likely at the same time, its first HomePod with a smart display. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo initially anticipated that this new device would be released early this year. However, according to a post on X, Apple now intends to introduce the smart speaker in the third quarter.

      Whether this qualifies as a “delay” is not of great importance, as the reasons for the timing of the speaker's launch are understandable. We might not see the new HomePod prior to its release for two main reasons. First, Apple has recently decided to delay the launch of a more conversational version of Siri in Apple Intelligence until "the coming year." Similar to previous HomePods, this upcoming model will be tightly integrated with Apple's voice assistant.

      The second reason for the postponement is related to the development of its interface. Recent rumors indicate that iOS 19 and the next iteration of macOS will feature a significant redesign. It makes sense that this updated design would also be incorporated into the new HomePod.

      Three months ago, I speculated that mass production of the HomePod equipped with a display would be pushed from the first quarter of 2025 to the third quarter of 2025 (after WWDC) due to software development challenges. Aside from Apple Intelligence, these challenges also involve ensuring that the HomePod’s interface is compatible with the new OS updates.

      Apple typically reveals new software versions at the June Worldwide Developers Conference, with public releases occurring in early fall alongside the new iPhone models.

      A HomePod featuring a display has long been rumored, but there isn’t much information available besides the likely size of a 6- or 7-inch screen. Given the current smart speakers on the market, it is reasonable to expect that Apple's version will be closely integrated with Siri and Apple Home, essentially functioning as a traditional HomePod with a small iPad attached.

      We should find out soon, as Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 17 lineup in early to mid-September, followed by a release a few weeks later. A similar announcement and release timeline is anticipated for the next HomePod.

      Bryan M. Wolfe has over ten years of experience as a technology writer, focusing on mobile topics.

      With the accessibility of the HomePod mini and the new HomePod receiving positive reviews, HomeKit has started to gain traction. While its catalog isn’t as extensive as Amazon Alexa's or Google Home's, the allure of a premium, Apple-driven smart home is undeniable. Although HomeKit is a highly secure platform, it does have its flaws.

      Whenever you issue a command to Siri or ask a question, details about your request are sent to Apple. While Apple takes steps to anonymize your information, it still collects data such as contact details, music preferences, smart home usage statistics, and more.

      Apple HomeKit, often referred to as Apple Home, is a smart home platform that enables you to control all your smart devices from one place. Its primary competitors are Amazon Alexa and Google Home, both of which offer similar functionality and support a wide array of products.

      Apple Home has its intricacies and has experienced consistent growth in recent years, making it a compelling option for managing your smart home.

      Rumors suggest that Apple may launch a HomePod smart display in 2024. The company just released an updated HomePod earlier this year, but speculation about its next major smart home product is already circulating. If these rumors are accurate, we could see a significantly different type of HomePod available by early 2024.

      These rumors originate from industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who indicates that the forthcoming HomePod will sport a seven-inch touchscreen and is designed for better integration with other products in Apple’s ecosystem. While this concept isn’t groundbreaking, it would mark Apple’s first foray into smart displays.