You may soon make calls using your Apple's HomePod
What's the story
Apple's HomePod smart speaker, which became commercially available a few months back, is reportedly getting an update that'll include a slew of new features including the ability to make and receive phone calls. First reported by French website iGeneration, the report seems to make sense considering that the HomePod was relatively light on features when it was released in December 2017. Here's more.
New features
Support for calling, and other features have been included
The Apple HomePod OS 12.0 beta, which has reportedly been seeded to some Apple employees, includes an update that allows users to make and receive phone calls via Siri on HomePod (provided their phones are connected). Additionally, support for the 'Find My iPhone' Siri command has also been added, while support for multiple timers is also expected.
Dismal sales
The HomePod's high price, limited features resulted in dismal sales
The HomePod was launched for $350, much higher than Amazon Echo or Google Home device. In comparison, however, the HomePod had limited functionality, especially considering frequent updates to Amazon and Google devices which saw features like intercom and call support, follow-up conversations, etc. being included. Understandably, with a high price-tag and limited features, the HomePod saw dismal sales.
Details
Launch timelines, details aren't known as of now
However, reports, as of now, are preliminary, and there aren't many details about these new features. Furthermore, it's unclear when these features will be rolled-out publicly. But, if the reports are to be believed, the new features will be a much-need and crucial addition to HomePod, especially if Apple hopes to compete with the likes of Amazon and Google.