One of the many interesting parts of playing with beta software is looking for things you shouldn’t find. In the case of iOS 16, announced yesterday at WWDC, it seems that Apple has buried references to a HomePod. But not just any HomePod. This is a HomePod that does not yet exist. At least not outside of Apple’s secret fortress.
The story comes through 9to5Mac, which stumbled upon the interesting mention while making a mention in beta software. They found references to “AudioAccessory6” buried in the beta version, which conforms to the HomePod naming scheme, but does not refer to an existing model. For reference, the HomePod Mini was AudioAccessory5 and the original model AudioAccessory1.
There have been several rumors about a new HomePod and it is not outrageous to think that one will come this year. The HomePod Mini debuted in late 2020, while the original was released in 2018. Two years between each. Hopefully the next iPhone will start to hit the shelves in its usual September window with the arrival of iOS 16 at the same time, so a new HomePod before the holidays would fit well.
Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously reported the possibility of a new HomePod in the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of 2023. So again, that would fit in with what is being is now on iOS 16. Kuo reports suggest something. of a HomePod Line Review Instead of Anything Radical We certainly do not expect the previously rumored HomePod / Apple TV hybrid to be the mysterious AudioAccessory6.
The HomePod, and smart speakers in general, are also an important gateway to the smart home. The HomePod Mini is out of reach of an Amazon or Google speaker, but it certainly has its strengths. And with Apple all about supporting Matter, now more than ever it might be time to get a new smart speaker. As an additional gift, Apple is preparing to make HomePod Software 16 available as a beta to the public for the first time this year.
Source: 9to5Mac