But the original point was that they don't make full-size anymore but they still say mini/bite size on the smaller ones. They do that because the full-size ones are still being made. In contrast to HomePod's where no one else makes them.
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Apple Discontinues Full-Sized HomePod to Focus on HomePod Mini
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Still is if you can find them. It was a great way to integrate AirPlay into any system.
I think Apple had the makings of a great audio ecosystem, but they didn’t put it together in their heads. If they added a centre channel speaker, with two HomePods and two HomePod Minis, you'd have a pretty nice Dolby Atmos system.
I haven't used Siri with it and I'm still enjoying, tremendously, my full size HomePods every day. It's a speaker first and foremost, and quite a great one at even $399.
Does "Hey alexa, text John what time will you be home" work?
lol... not exactly what i meant, that would be a terrible product.
Its also worth noting the bill of materials on AppleTV is really low.
As of iOS 14.5, it got AirPlay support - no need for Apple TV hardware there...
Judging by what hardware has come and gone before, I'd say these will slowly wither on the vine and then die.
Nahh, the problem is that the Homepod didn't allow any other input sources. What good is the best speaker in the world if I can't use it except with low quality streaming media over my phone?
I use Siri on my phone everyday on everyday tasks. Rarely failed me.
So true. I still see Airport Express units selling far above what one would think they would
I thought all modern TVs were built with as much UI lag as can be fit in a panel.
When a company starts discontinuing things left and right, it’s a good sign about the direction the company is going. Good strategy isn’t about saying “yes” to everything, it’s about choosing when to say “no”
Yeah I know that’s kinda a Steve Jobs quote, but you’ll find that philosophy in most business journals.
Yeah I know that’s kinda a Steve Jobs quote, but you’ll find that philosophy in most business journals.
Why? Do you live alone in the mountains or are you secretly annoying everyone nearby and never noticed? Cause those are the only two options.
I'm not sure of the point you're making.
I was simply refuting the thought that Apple TV hardware is needed since Fitness+ is now a thing.
Everything I see indicates an Apple that is making sure all their core offerings will be "just fine" if Apple TV hardware goes away.
And I was pointing out that no TV has a UI that is as fast and responsive as Apple's years-old dedicate box. You need a the hardware because the built-in smart functions of TVs move like they are waist-deep in water.
I think you're conflating "need" and "want".
I've used many smart TV interfaces in family homes that are "just fine".
I say they are "just fine" because many of these folks have plenty of means and prefer the simplicity of "it's all just built into their TV". It's not a cost thing, but just an ease issue -- already "built in" - done. Boom. I'm not saying I agree with that, as I have Apple TV's (I have old TV's)....but I understand that view for sure.
And all of these newer smart tv's would be fine for Fitness+ airplay'd from a device.
The whole reason I use Apple is that it's more than "just fine". If all built into the TV is 'just fine' was the case then no one would buy soundbars.
You really want either one or two HomePods. They sound better. I have 3 minis and 3 homepods. I heard about this a couple hours ago. Bought a fourth HomePod as I love the sound it provides. The minis are nice and have their place but they are NOT HomePods.
You’re being silly literal. Obviously Apple is not making enough money on them to keep selling them.
Apple discontinues original HomePod, will focus on mini | TechCrunch
Apple has discontinued its original HomePod after four years. It says that it will continue to produce and focus on the HomePod mini, introduced last
techcrunch.com
Poor wording on my part. More like I’m surprised Apple hasn’t attempted to acquire the Sonos brand.
Sound and UI are different deals and very subjective depends upon the people, the situation, the need, etc.
For instance - the Acoustic Surface on the Sony OLEDs?
Super impressive and I'll bet sufficient for the vast majority of folks, at least for everyday viewing (not focused "movie time" stuff).
Re: UI - I'm blown away at how little people seem to care. For a lot of folks, all they need is a way to "start Netflix" or "fire up Disney+" -- and they don't really care about the rest. They are focused on the content they are watching, not the UI used to select it real quick. I totally get where they are coming from.
I get that you and I like Apple for "reasons" -- but it's important to look at this from a wider lens, as Apple does as a company.