Apple started the year strong by launching the long-awaited mixed virtual reality glasses, the famous Vision Pro. A little later, it launched the MacBook Air range with the M3 chip and throughout the year they launched stellar products such as the iPhone 16, the Apple Tenth generation Watch or the new iPad Pro with M4 chip.However, there are some company products that have been forgotten, or that may not even appear in the future notebook of Apple’s plans.
The Cupertino company’s strategy has always been constant innovation, but 2024 has also shown that certain devices have no place in the brand’s current vision. Next, we review the items that Apple has left aside this year, raising questions about its future.
HomePod mini: no sign of the successor
Launched in 2020, the HomePod mini won over users with its compact design, outstanding sound quality and a relatively affordable price. However, in 2024 there has been no sign of an update. While competition in the smart speaker market grows with devices that integrate advanced assistants and new technologies like Matter, the HomePod mini continues to offer the same features as four years ago.
Could it be that Apple is focusing its efforts on the Vision Pro and its ecosystem instead of strengthening Siri as a competitor to Alexa and Google Assistant? The silence around this device could indicate that Apple considers it sufficient as is or, worse yet, that it has no immediate plans to renew it. Rumors speak of a HomePod with screenbut nothing from the reduced size wizard.
AirPods Max: new color and nothing more
Since their arrival in 2020, AirPods Max have been a symbol of luxury and sound quality. However, the headphone market has evolved considerably, with competitors such as Sony and Bose offering lighter alternatives, with better batteries and at more attractive prices.
Although a second generation was expected in 2024 with improvements such as lossless audio via AirPlay or even a lighter design, Apple has not met expectations, since they have only added new colors but without changes in design or functionality. Could it be that the company does not see it profitable to invest in a premium device with a small audience?
Mac Studio and AirPower?
One of the most interesting launches of 2023 was the Mac Studio, a device designed for creatives and professionals looking for an alternative to the Mac Pro. However, with the arrival of the MacBook Pro with M4 Pro, M4 Ultra and M4 Max chipsit seems that Mac Studio has taken a backseat. In 2024, Apple has not mentioned an update for this desktop computer, which could indicate that the focus has shifted towards portability without compromising power.
AirPower, the wireless charging base which Apple introduced in 2017 and then canceled in 2019, remains one of the company’s biggest mysteries. Although from time to time we read rumors about his return, in 2024 not a word has been said about it. Instead, Apple seems to be betting on MagSafe, relegating what could have been a revolutionary product to oblivion.
Apple does not give a stitch without a thread, and each decision seems to be carefully calculated. However, the lack of updates in these products raises doubts among the most loyal users. Is the company prioritizing more profitable and futuristic products like the Vision Pro, leaving behind items that don’t fit its innovation narrative?
The entry The products forgotten by Apple in 2024: strategy or oversight of the company? It was first published in La Manzana Mordida.
