Apple might be working on HomePod with 7-inch display

Apple reportedly has big plans for the HomePod, and those plans include a 7-inch display.

According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo(opens in new tab)the tech company is working on a version of the smart speaker with a 7-inch display that will launch in the first half of 2024.

Details about the device are unknown, but Kuo believes the product will allow for tighter integration with Apple’s other hardware offerings.

Kuo believes the display panel for Apple’s upcoming HomePod will be made by Tianma, a Chinese company that makes displays for smartphones, laptops, tablets and cars. If the HomePod deal goes well, Kuo believes Apple could partner with his Tianma to produce panels for his future iPads as well.

I’ve heard similar rumors before. In 2021, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said Apple was working on a speaker with a built-in screen and camera, but no release date for such a device.

And in January of this year, Gurman said Apple was working on an inexpensive iPad-like device that would allow users to control various smart home functions. While this sounds like a different device than what Kuo is proposing, it does indicate that Apple is potentially looking to beef up its smart home lineup.

Apple recently brought back the original HomePod, keeping its design and most of its acoustics while making it a bit cheaper. The HomePod and HomePod mini have a small touchscreen panel on top that displays animations when you summon Siri, but otherwise have little display.