Answering the question on a replacement of Beats Pill, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg said that Apple might launch a battery-powered smart speaker in the future. Currently, the Cupertino tech giant does not retail a battery-powered smart speaker under Apple and Beats brands.
Although HomePod mini is compact which makes it ideal for a portable smart speaker powered by a battery, the speaker needs to be plugged in a power socket to work. And the tech giant discontinued its only battery-powered smart speaker “Beats Pill+ ” this month, after six years.
If Apple launches a battery-powered smart speaker, it will be under Beats brand
In his latest newsletter “Power On”, Gurman said that the tech giant not only discussed but also prototyped a battery-powered smart speaker internally. However, he expressed doubt that Apple would ever launch such a smart speaker in the future.
A battery-powered speaker will allow users to carry it anywhere they wish, indoors or outdoors. But Apple has improved sound systems on iPhone, iPad, and Mac models to give users good quality portable speakers. And the company markets multiple HomePod minis in a single household to continue listening to music or audio throughout the home. And for these reasons, Gurman believes that if a battery-powered smart speaker is ever launched, it will be under the Beats brand.
Q: Do you think Apple will ever make a battery-powered HomePod to replace the Beats Pill?
Years ago, Apple internally discussed and prototyped a battery-powered smart speaker, but I would be surprised if one ever launches under the Apple brand. The speakers on the iPhone and iPad are pretty decent at this point, and I’m sure Apple would rather consumers buy those for mobile playback than a cheaper HomePod. If Apple does get back into the battery-powered speaker game, I’d guess it returns under the Beats brand. That’s the same place Apple has tucked cheaper audio gear in the past.
Apple acquired Beats in 2014 and has launched mid-to-high range Bluetooth headphones. The only cheaper headphones than AirPods (second generation) are Beats Flex for $69.99. Recently, the company introduced Beats Fit Pro and Studio Buds, in-the-ear headphones with Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, and other advanced features.
