Apple introduced the HomePod smart speaker in 2017. And now, after 4 years, they decided to abandon this product.
Why?
Apple representatives said the companyceases production and production of HomePod. Apparently, the issue is the unpopularity of the speaker: despite the good sound, many were put off by the price tag of $349. This is one of the highest rates in the smart speaker market. Reducing the price to $299 softened the situation a little, but did not increase sales much.
Therefore, the manufacturer decided to focus onHomePod mini. This is a more compact speaker introduced in October last year. It is in great demand, primarily due to the price - only $99.
“HomePod mini has been a hit since its debutlast fall, offering customers amazing audio, a smart assistant, and smart home control for just $99. We're focusing our efforts on the HomePod mini. We're discontinuing the original HomePod and will continue to be available while supplies last through the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores and Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple will provide HomePod customers with software updates, as well as service and support through Apple Care."
That is, you can still buy a HomePod, but for now there are stocks in stores. And HomePod mini is designed to continue competing with similar gadgets from Google and Amazon.
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