Apple’s ecosystem continues to evolve, and this year could be key for its entertainment devices and smart homes. According to several reliable sources, the company will launch new models of the Apple TV and HomePod mini, both equipped with a key element that could transform their performance: a combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip designed by Apple.
Keep reading this post and discover the importance of this.
Jump to Wi-Fi 6E and more power for less money
Journalist Mark Gurman, known for his accurate reporting on Apple, revealed that these devices will have a chip compatible with Wi-Fi 6E. This standard brings the capabilities of Wi-Fi 6 to the 6 GHz band, offering faster wireless speeds and reducing interference in homes with multiple connected devices.
While the current Apple TV, released in 2022, already supports Wi-Fi 6, the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E will represent a significant improvement in connection speed and stability. However, the question remains whether the new HomePod mini will take full advantage of this technology, as Apple has kept its smart speakers anchored to older Wi-Fi standards. In fact, the current HomePod mini still works with the outdated Wi-Fi 4.
In addition to the new connectivity chip, the next Apple TV will include a newer A-series processor, surpassing the current A15 Bionic that debuted with the iPhone 13 in 2021. This promises a even more agile performance to enjoy streaming, games and applications.
Another important novelty could be a price drop. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that the next Apple TV could start from a price less than 100 dollarswhich would make it more competitive in a market saturated by cheaper options. Currently, the models start at €169 in their 64GB and 128GB versions, respectively.
As for the design, not many changes are expected, although Apple has considered the possibility of incorporating a integrated camerato make video calls directly from the TV without depending on a connected iPhone or iPad, as is currently the case with the FaceTime app introduced in tvOS 17.
The HomePod mini returns
The HomePod mini, launched in 2020, is also ready for a refresh. It is likely to receive a new “S” series chip and improvements in sound qualityplus an updated Ultra Wideband chip that will reduce latency in functions like Handoff. New colors could also be added to refresh your design.
The arrival of this device will be complemented by a more ambitious move: Apple plans to launch a smart home center with a six-inch screen. This device can be mounted on the wall or placed on a base with a speaker, offering a similar experience to the HomePod mini, but with greater possibilities for visual interaction.
These launches reinforce Apple’s commitment to smart homes and entertainment. The adoption of Wi-Fi 6E and improved components promise smoother and more advanced experiences, while the possibility of more affordable prices could expand the reach of these devices. Stay tuned because we will tell you everything as the specifications of each device are confirmed.
