The Apple leaker and prototype collector known as “Kosutami” says Apple is continuing to develop a new HomePod model that will feature a curved LCD display.
The device, codenamed B720, is said to feature the same design as the current HomePod but it boasts a curved, convex LCD screen at the top to display content.
In October, Kosutami shared images of components that are allegedly being used to create a prototype touchscreen HomePod. Other reports at the time claimed to verify the legitimacy of these images with other sources.
More details on HomePod B720
Same panel size and same design with HomePod 2. Screen were bit curved, looks great after got assembled.#appleinternal pic.twitter.com/z8mYgeI3O2— Kosutami (@KosutamiSan) December 26, 2023
Apple is rumored to be working on adapting its Apple Music and Apple podcasts to be compatible with the new display, which is said to display a blurred animation based on the colors of the album art when a song or podcast is playing. The screen could also potentially show important notifications.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in 2021 indicated that Apple was working on new HomePod models that feature cameras and displays. Then, in early 2023, Apple industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple was planning to release a revamped HomePod with a 7-inch display sometime during the first half of 2024.
Kuo said Apple will unveil a redesigned HomePod boasting a 7-inch panel in “1H24,” with Tianma as the exclusive panel supplier. He went on to say that the new HomePod could enable tighter integration with Apple’s other hardware products, marking a significant shift in the company’s smart home strategy.
Tianma specializes in providing display solutions and associated support services worldwide. Kuo says the company will be the sole supplier of the redesigned HomePod’s display. If Tianma performs well, it may be tapped to supply iPad display panels in the future.
