Apple Planning to Launch New Version of HomePod Smart Speaker

Tech giant Apple might be planning to launch a new version of the HomePod smart speaker in late 2022 or early 2023. According to trusted supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the tech giant is aiming to launch its next HomePod model in the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of next year.

It's probably a bigger model than the HomePod mini, but its features help bring the cost down from $300 like its predecessor. Kuo also said that while he views smart speakers as one of the essential elements of the home ecosystem, and does not think that Apple has realized how to be successful in the smart speaker domain. 

Apple is currently selling the $99 HomePod mini as the only model. The original HomePod with its much more striking sound was discontinued last year after being reduced from $349 to $299.