Apple Inc (NASDAQ: AAPL) said it is discontinuing the original HomePod speakers and will focus its efforts on the smaller HomePod mini, TechCrunch reported on Saturday.
What happened: The tech giant led by Tim Cook will continue to sell existing HomePod speakers, but his site has already sold out Space Gray versions.
“We are focusing our efforts on the HomePod mini. We are discontinuing the original HomePod, it will remain available as long as supplies last at the Apple Online Store, Apple Retail Stores and Apple Authorized Resellers, ”Apple said in a statement to TechCrunch.
“Apple will provide HomePod customers with software updates, services and support through Apple Care.”
Why does it matter: The HomePod mini, which sells for $ 99, was well received. The original HomePod was launched at a high price of $ 349, but later saw a price drop to $ 299.
Last year, the tech giant based in Cupertino, California cleaned the shelves in their stores of wireless headsets and speakers made by Sonos Inc (NASDAQ: THEN NO) and Logitech International SA (NASDAQ: LOGI) while preparing to launch its own line of headphones.
In December, Apple launched its $ 549 earphones. However, Cupertino may have a run for its money on audio with Qualcomm Inc’s (NASDAQ: QCOM) recently announced chips designed to seamlessly connect wireless headphones to running devices Alphabet Inc’s (NASDAQ: GOOGL) (NASDAQ: GOOG) Android operating system.
Price action: Apple shares closed almost 0.8% lower at $ 121.03 on Friday.
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