When Apple’s HomePod was launched in 2018 as a $ 349 speaker tending to stain surfaces, it wasn’t smart enough to match audio quality or price. Software updates helped solve the first problem and the price dropped over time, but tonight TechCrunch reports confirmation from Apple that it will discontinue the original speaker.
In a statement, Apple confirmed that software updates and technical support will continue for existing units and “will continue to be available as long as supplies last at the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores and Apple Authorized Resellers.” The company said it would focus its efforts on the HomePod mini, the $ 99 edition it launched last fall that best fits as a competitor to Google and Amazon’s offerings.
Apple Store
The general arc is similar to Google’s Home Max, which also ended its run – but is still available on Google via eBay for $ 190 – after smart speaker buyers refused to pay premium prices for a speaker. of a technology company. How TechCrunch notes, the Space Gray edition of HomePod is already sold out online and at some Apple stores, although Best Buy and other retailers may have more units of the now $ 300 speaker in stock.