Apple's new iPhone 12 may look like an iPad Pro; smaller HomePods in 2020
A new report claims to have details on Apple's revamped hardware lineup, from AirTags, and the "iPhone 12," to a new, smaller, and cheaper HomePod.
The iPad Pro has flat edges, a design feature that may be inherited by the iPhone 12
Backing up previous accounts of Apple's hardware plans, a new report claims to have details from sources who have seen prototypes of the company's next revisions to the iPhone and HomePod, as well as the forthcoming AirTags.
According to Bloomberg, Apple may be planning to release four new iPhones at the end of this year. Two will include top-end models, replacing the current iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max. And it may include two lower-end models, both of which are intended to replace the present iPhone 11.
The two higher-end ones, and possibly all four models, are expected to have flattened stainless steel edges to replace the current more rounded sides. This plus more sharply rounded corners would make the new chassis of these iPhones resemble both the current, and the iPhone 5 from 2012.
Apple is expected to add the LiDAR scanner from the iPad Pro to the iPhone Pro models, which will continue to have three rear cameras. The lower-end models will retain their current two rear cameras.
The replacement for the iPhone 11 Pro Max is believed to have a screen that is slightly bigger than the 6.5-inch one used today, and the Face ID notch is expected to be less pronounced.
While these new models would ordinarily be the ones unveiled at a September event, Bloomberg says that some models may be released many weeks later than usual. They are still expected in the Fall, though.
Reportedly, a new HomePod willl be half the size of the current one
The publication's sources say that a new HomePod is planned for around the same time, too. This is said to be around half the size of the current HomePod, although otherwise similar in design. It's also expected to be sold at a lower price, and in some way to offer additional music services.
Bloomberg reports that the expected AirTags will be sold with a keychain and leather sleeve. It further says that Apple is also working on a revised iMac, and MacBook Pro model, plus a new Apple TV, and budget iPads.
The iPad Pro has flat edges, a design feature that may be inherited by the iPhone 12
Backing up previous accounts of Apple's hardware plans, a new report claims to have details from sources who have seen prototypes of the company's next revisions to the iPhone and HomePod, as well as the forthcoming AirTags.
According to Bloomberg, Apple may be planning to release four new iPhones at the end of this year. Two will include top-end models, replacing the current iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max. And it may include two lower-end models, both of which are intended to replace the present iPhone 11.
The two higher-end ones, and possibly all four models, are expected to have flattened stainless steel edges to replace the current more rounded sides. This plus more sharply rounded corners would make the new chassis of these iPhones resemble both the current, and the iPhone 5 from 2012.
Apple is expected to add the LiDAR scanner from the iPad Pro to the iPhone Pro models, which will continue to have three rear cameras. The lower-end models will retain their current two rear cameras.
The replacement for the iPhone 11 Pro Max is believed to have a screen that is slightly bigger than the 6.5-inch one used today, and the Face ID notch is expected to be less pronounced.
While these new models would ordinarily be the ones unveiled at a September event, Bloomberg says that some models may be released many weeks later than usual. They are still expected in the Fall, though.
Reportedly, a new HomePod willl be half the size of the current one
The publication's sources say that a new HomePod is planned for around the same time, too. This is said to be around half the size of the current HomePod, although otherwise similar in design. It's also expected to be sold at a lower price, and in some way to offer additional music services.
Bloomberg reports that the expected AirTags will be sold with a keychain and leather sleeve. It further says that Apple is also working on a revised iMac, and MacBook Pro model, plus a new Apple TV, and budget iPads.
Comments
A smaller, cheaper speaker would close the gap further. I’d be willing to bet that Apple has made their money back with the HomePod, while not a smashing success, it has its place.
So, that leaves HomePod as the best choice for a hub -- but who wants to pay $300 for a hub?
Actually, I think, what Apple needs to do is develop a router that can also function as a HomeKit hub. Now that would be useful.
The fact you can get 6 Alexa speakers for the price of one HomePod says something about the price of the HomePod. But considering that is sort of an Apples/Oranges comparison, it's not really fair.
The biggest issue with the HomePod is it lacks so much compatibility with non-Apple services and devices. THAT's why it has only 5% market share. A smaller HomePod isn't going to change that unless Apple makes some big changes. Put a battery in it and make it work like every other BT speaker out there.
https://www.theverge.com/2019/1/8/18173637/tv-airplay-2-apple-lg-samsung-sony-vizio-ces-2019
Here is some info on compatible tv’s from February of this year as well..
https://www.flatpanelshd.com/focus.php?subaction=showfull&id=1580796087
Why ? It’s not a surround speaker. It’s has never been advertised or marketed for that use. It also works fine via Airplay if you actually wanted to try. I personally prefer a soundbar or component system when I watch movies. I use the HomePod for music.
https://www.theverge.com/2019/1/8/18173637/tv-airplay-2-apple-lg-samsung-sony-vizio-ces-2019
Here is some info on compatible tv’s from February of this year as well..
https://www.flatpanelshd.com/focus.php?subaction=showfull&id=1580796087
Not every single Apple product needs to have iPhone success nor will it. Some of you just can't understand that.
Am I suppose to ignore the HomePod option AppleTV give me because you said so?
We don’t agree on a lot but I do agree on the router. Apple dropped the ball on this big time.
Apple presents the HomePod as a speaker, so yes, they do expect you to use is as a sound bar for the AppleTV. Is it full surround sound? Obviously no, but for those that want something a little better than their TV speakers it is pretty awesome.