While the latest AppleHomePod boasts about having numerous new functions and features, essentially it looks and feels about the same. Sure, minor quality of life improvements are there and new, major utilities have been introduced, but overall it is essentially a modified version of an already existing product.
That isn't at all to say that the design is bad. After all, it is one of the best smart speakers around. Apple is renowned for its ability to create gadgets with pinnacle design quality. One can only wonder if the HomePod of today is actually the peak of the technology, or are there still ways in which it could be improved?
Well, a new patent submission by Apple, reported on by Apple Insider, might give some insight as to what the trendmaker from Cupertino sees as the smart speaker of tomorrow. And it is, in fact, a speaker that bends to its owner’s will not only in function, but also in form.
Some example sketches found within the patent document.
Now, before we move on, there is an important note to be made here: this is a patent. This means that Apple has made a claim over the idea and invention, however that doesn’t always indicate intent or imminent production. Sometimes it just boils down to experimentation or bragging rights.
That, however, doesn’t change the fact that the bendy HomePod, described as a “flexible smart speaker” in the document, is truly a gizmo to behold. By the looks of things, it is designed so that it could bend and attach to corners or get crammed into tightly fit spaces through a system of complex hinges. Naturally, no compromise to sound quality is mentioned, which is further testimony to Apple’s everlasting confidence.
The document mentions that the device’s shifting capabilities can not only take advantage of smaller packaging — hopefully foreboding more eco-friendly decisions — but can also be utilized across a wider range of set-ups, like wall-mounted TVs or monitors. Does that mean that the shapeshifting HomePod could latch on to the edge of your TV? No confirmation, but that would certainly be cool.
Overall, this theoretical HomePod of the future is a combination of bendable components, static parts where the actual speakers would be located and a possibly bendable screen too. Now the question is if we’ll see a foldable iPhone before we see a bendable HomePod? We can’t say for sure, but we’d be thrilled to witness both.
Follow us on social media to catch the latest trending stories, watch exclusive videos, and join the conversation with our vibrant community!
Stan, also known as Stako, is a smartphone enthusiast who loves exploring the limits of Android customization. His journey with mobile tech began with the Nokia 5110 and evolved with devices like the BlackBerry 9350 Curve and Samsung Galaxy A4. Despite his love for Android, he holds equal respect for Apple, considering the iPhone 4s as a significant milestone in mobile tech. Stan started his writing career early, contributing to MetalWorld, and harbors a passion for creative writing. Beyond smartphones, he's interested in photography, design, composition, and gaming, often preferring solo projects to hone his objective thinking. He's also an avid student of open-source technology and consoles, with a special fondness for the Pebble Watch, Arduboy, and Playdate.
Recommended Stories
Loading Comments...
COMMENT
All comments need to comply with our
Community Guidelines
Phonearena comments rules
A discussion is a place, where people can voice their opinion, no matter if it
is positive, neutral or negative. However, when posting, one must stay true to the topic, and not just share some
random thoughts, which are not directly related to the matter.
Things that are NOT allowed:
Off-topic talk - you must stick to the subject of discussion
Offensive, hate speech - if you want to say something, say it politely
Spam/Advertisements - these posts are deleted
Multiple accounts - one person can have only one account
Impersonations and offensive nicknames - these accounts get banned
Moderation is done by humans. We try to be as objective as possible and moderate with zero bias. If you think a
post should be moderated - please, report it.
Have a question about the rules or why you have been moderated/limited/banned? Please,
contact us.
Things that are NOT allowed: