Apple is reportedly developing a HomePod with a display. Check details. (Representative Image) (Unsplash)

Apple Investigating Possibility of HomePod with LCD Screen

Apple has a history of experimenting with unusual products that often remain in the prototype phase. The company’s collection of filed patents includes even more peculiar gadgets, such as a foldable iMac, an iPhone integrated with a MacBook, a car without windows, vibrating VR socks, and self-adjusting bands for the Apple Watch. However, a recent leak has revealed a potential Apple device that might actually be released – a HomePod featuring an LCD display. Learn more about this development.

HomePod on screen

This isn’t the first time a HomePod with an LCD display has been mentioned. Sources like Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman have previously reported that Apple has been working on a new HomePod with a display to strengthen its foothold in the smart home segment. And now, an Apple collector who goes by @KosutamiSanilla X has shared snapshots of the HomePod prototype.

“An engineered HomePod body with a completely different glass on top – it’s placed on the touchscreen, with a black bezel,” the user wrote. Citing sources, 9to5Mac reported that the device is indeed in development, although there is no confirmation as to whether it will make it past the prototype stage. This HomePod with an LCD display has been codenamed “B720”.

Rumored information

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously reported that the HomePod might feature a 7-inch display, supplied by Chinese company Tianma. It would enable “tighter integration with Apple’s other hardware products, marking a significant shift in the company’s smart home strategy.” KosutamiSan also claimed that the design of this LCD HomePod is similar to the HomePod 2nd Generation announced in January this year.

Apple currently sells two HomePods — the larger HomePod, which costs $299, and the HomePod Mini, which costs $99.

Apple has also reportedly been testing an iPad-like device that can be mounted on a wall as part of improving its smart home ecosystem. It is said to be able to control smart home devices, play music and videos, and allow FaceTime calls.