Apple’s own HomePod has still not yet landed on its feet, as it is still due for a release sometime this year. And while the company readies the launch of its first Home device, we already have an idea of a feature that will be featured on its next iteration.
It seems that the second generation of the HomePod could come with Face ID, just like the iPhone X would. This piece of information comes from a source very close to the manufacturing process of the HomePod in the form of David Ho, who happens to be the president of Inventec Appliances. He mentions that while engineers will be designing the product around voice recognition, there will be possibilities in facial recognition and image recognition technology integrated as well. He also added we could see HomePods wit 3D sensing cameras as soon as 2019.
Silicon Beat reports the HomePod and the iPhone will not be the only devices from Apple to come with Face ID. Even the iPad is expected to come with facial recognition to replace Touch ID. So far, the HomePod that will be releasing this year may not come with Face ID, but as for the exact date of a launch, no confirmation has been given yet apart from a December release. The HomePod will cost $349 and will be powered by Siri. Over 50,000 HomePods are expected to be delivered in the United States by the end of 2017. Certain analysts feel that the number could rise all the way to four million in 2018. The numbers may be a little premature, considering the competition form Alexa and Google Home.
Inventec does not only produce the HomePods for Apple, but also produces numerous devices for Xiaomi smartphones, Fitbit devices, Sonos speakers and other pieces of tech. He also mentions that the new AI-based technology will enable more convenience for users. After having first been shown off in June at the WWDC, those waiting for the HomePod may not be able to use it to its fullest potential just yet, considering Alex and Google Assistant both have had superior experience and intuition in interaction with consumers. The HomePod does not just aim to be a smart speaker, but is also looking to be a music-focused speaker with high quality audio. With its spatial recognition features speaking to it from any corner of the room will not be a problem.
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