At Apple’s annual big-reveal WWDC 2022 conference, Tim Cook’s behemoth has released the first beta of iOS 16 to developers. Cue in-depth analysis on the plethora of fresh features (including reworked notifications that don’t impinge on your lock screen photo, which is also far more customizable is general) and, most excitingly for HomePod lovers, the first proof from Apple of a new HomePod model… probably.
Within the beta (a pre-release version of the software that is given out to a specially selected group users to try in the wild – although it can be accessed and downloaded by mere mortals if you and your iPhone are feeling brave) there are references to an unreleased HomePod model.
As first spotted by 9to5Mac (opens in new tab), the original HomePod within the beta code is labelled ‘AudioAccessory1’ and the HomePod mini is ‘AudioAccessory5’. The exciting thing is, there’s an ‘AudioAccessory6’ there too…
What else does all of this tell us? Admittedly, nothing about the actual size, specifications, price or release date of the hotly-anticipated HomePod 2 (as it may or may not be called). But what these codes do prove is that iOS 16 is prepped and willing to support a brand new HomePod model.
Reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has already claimed that Apple is readying a new HomePod, slated for a 2022 or early 2023 launch date. The good news is that any Apple devices released in that particular time window will run on iOS 16, so the recent findings within the beta reinforce Kuo’s prediction.
Opinion: I’m yearning for a new HomePod – as long as it’s competitively priced