Forget Google Nest Hub 2 — Apple could be working on its own smart display

Forget Google Nest Hub ii — Apple could be working on its own smart display

(Paradigm credit: Parker Ortolani)

Apple could have a smart display on the way later on a Bloomberg study claimed that the company is working on new speakers featuring "screens and cameras."

So Apple could be following in the footsteps of Amazon and Google, and offer some sort of HomePod device that has a built-in screen. A screen that could exist used for FaceTime calls, or integration with other camera-based smart abode devices.

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MacRumors contributor Steve Moser has corroborated this news, with the discovery of FaceTime and iMessage frameworks inside the tvOS 14.5 beta code. Plus a new AVFCapture framework related to epitome capturing.

That doesn't necessarily mean that FaceTime and iMessage are coming to Apple TV, since HomePod speakers run on the same base code as the Apple Tv. So by calculation those frameworks to tvOS, you're making them bachelor on two different device families.

Of course, the HomePod tin can already relay audio from FaceTime, but this is unlike. Co-ordinate to MacRumors, the new lawmaking is distinct from anything related to tvOS's existing FaceTime features. In other words, this is not but an update to a feature that'due south been available since day one.

But beyond making video calls to other Apple tree users, there's a lot to be gained from an Apple smart display. Apple's HomeKit smart home system lacks any sort of smart brandish correct now, meaning HomeKit users lack some of the abilities available with Alexa and Google Assistant.

The smart display tin function as a dedicated hub for your smart home, offering actress visual data you lot tin't get from an ordinary speaker. Information technology also offers you a dedicated screen to view live video feeds from your smart cameras and other tablet-like features; remember video streaming or online recipes.

Those features are available with the Amazon Echo Show and the Google Nest Hub. So really FaceTime is just the bare minimum of what an Apple smart brandish has to offer.

Bloomberg'due south Mark Gurman said at that place are no plans for an "imminent launch" for the Apple smart display. And so don't expect one to arrive whatever time shortly, if it ever arrives at all.

Every bit for the tvOS code, Apple is probable just laying the groundwork for a hereafter launch. Assuming we won't exist seeing FaceTime come to Apple TV boxes someday presently.

As with anything rumored to be coming out of Apple, nosotros've got to be patient. It makes perfect sense for the visitor to release its own smart display, ideally sooner rather than later. But we won't know for certain until information technology actually tells us what'due south happening. Or unless there's a serious leak at Cupertino.

More: Everything you lot need to know nigh the Google Nest Hub 2

Tom is the Tom's Guide's Automotive Editor, which means he tin ordinarily be establish knee joint deep in stats the latest and best electric cars, or checking out some sort of driving gadget. It'southward long way from his days equally editor of Gizmodo Britain, when pretty much everything was on the table. He's unremarkably establish trying to squeeze another giant Lego prepare onto the shelf, draining very large cups of coffee, or lament that Ikea won't let him buy the stuff he really needs online.