Toni Dimaano Tech 01.23.2023 07:Jan AM EST

Apple Denies Working On A New HomePod Mini Version

It is unlikely that Apple is developing a new model of the HomePod mini smart speaker, despite many rumors that the tech giant is already doing so.

According to Mark Gurman, there is not a clear need to update the HomePod model because it does not have any significant new features that it does not already have.

There Could Be Improvements To The Models That Do Not Need Complete Update

More colors, a lower price, and better microphones would be wonderful additions, but the big advancements will likely be accomplished in the back end, with Siri and app connectivity.

According to Mac Rumors, in October 2020, at Apple's iPhone 12 event, the HomePod mini was unveiled by the Cupertino giant.

The first HomePod was withdrawn by Apple less than six months later, leaving the HomePod tiny as the only smart speaker available from the firm until last week, when Apple reintroduced the full-size HomePod design.

Several functions that were previously available only on the HomePod mini are now available on the newly reintroduced HomePod.

This consists of a bigger backlit touch panel that shines from edge to edge, an Apple Watch S-series chip, an U1 ultra wideband chip, Thread support, a temperature and humidity sensor, and more.

Gurman stated in August 2022 that Apple was considering releasing an improved HomePod tiny model in the future, but he did not give a particular release date or information regarding potential new features.

He implied that any modifications to the HomePod's smaller sister would be limited and predicted that the upgrade wouldn't be "super-impressive," but those plans now appear to have been scrapped.

Here's Other Apple products To Look Out For In 2023 Instead

A wave of January product announcements from Apple Inc. included the newest MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and HomePod speaker.

Since the company normally loves to release new products in the spring, summer, and fall, the timing is noteworthy.

In fact, Apple had originally hoped to introduce all three items last year, according to a report by Bloomberg.

With the M2 iPad Pro line, most recent Apple TV, new MacBook Pro, updated Mac mini, and redesigned HomePod all arriving during a post-iPhone fall rush, that would have created a very full calendar.

Instead, Apple chose to release the iPad and Apple TV first, delaying the release of the remaining three items until this past week.

Although Apple has in the past produced goods with a restricted initial supply, doing so in this instance would involve a high level of financial risk.

In any case, the Mac business demands these new improvements, and the business must continue to make them if it wants to keep up with Apple Silicon's speed.

Because of that, in anticipation of the M3 series, which will be released later this year or early next year, the M2 will serve as a temporary chip.

Apple is already working on M3 versions of the iMac and MacBook Air, which will be built using the more sophisticated 3-nanometer manufacturing process.

Additionally, it is working on an updated MacBook Pro with OLED panels and long-awaited touch capability for 2025, Bloomberg reports.