A smaller, lower-priced HomePod apparently on the docket for the Apple event
But don’t expect a second-generation update to the current Siri-powered speaker, a serial leaker cautions.
Wireless Speaker
Sonos S2 operating system upgrade, for compatible speakers only
The new Sonos S2 operating system will launch in June 2020 but not all of your Sonos products will be compatible. Find out which products will be left out and what to do if you have a “mixed system.”
HomePod hits India, selling for below the regular US pricing
The device is selling for 19,900 rupees, which works out to about $263. By comparison, the company sells the HomePod for $299 in the United States.
Apple considering allowing third-party music apps like Spotify and Pandora on HomePod
Spotify, Pandora and other third-party music apps may soon be allowed to stream directly on the HomePod speaker.
Sonos to nix support for older devices in May [Updated]
Smart speaker pioneer Sonos says it’s the end of the road for its oldest devices. Owners won’t get any more updates but can trade in gear for a 30% credit.
You can now ask Alexa to play Apple Podcasts on your Echo-enabled speaker
Amazon and Apple today expanded their existing partnership that enables Echo owners to use Apple Music by introducing support for Apple Podcasts.
How to play ambient sounds on HomePod
Follow along to learn how to get your HomePod wireless speaker to play some cool ambient sounds from nature, as well as how to fall asleep to your favorite audio background.
Ethical question: should you disclose smart speakers like HomePod to guests?
If you own a smart speaker like HomePod or a similar device that comes with an always-on assistant, should you make visitors aware they might be recorded at all times?
A cheaper HomePod with just two tweeters could drop as early as next year
Apple is reportedly working on a cheaper HomePod with poorer sound for as early as next year because the current $300 model “hasn’t sold very well.”
Apple Music with Alexa is launching today on German Echo devices
All that customers need to do before being able to use this functionality is set Apple Music as the default streaming service in the mobile Alexa app.
The new HomePod software makes the Siri-speaker play nice with enterprise networks
To install the new software, open the Home app on your iOS device, tap the icon in the upper-left of the corner, choose the option Software Update and follow the instructions.
Apple is working on a multi-user mode for HomePod, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has it
The Cupertino company is allegedly developing a much-requested mode for the HomePod smart speaker that would let the device respond to different users’ voices.
