A single tip from a reliable source has revealed that Apple is due to release the long-awaited HomePod speaker on 26 January 2018, earlier than the expected March release date. Apple delayed the launch from before Christmas 2017, and issued a new date of "early 2018", which can be any time from January to 31 March 2018. The release in January appears to be a response to the popularity of voice services Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana.
To be sure...
There are rumours, and then there is reliable speculation. The latter insists that the new Apple HomePod speaker will be released ahead of schedule, on 26 January 2018.
The source suggests that Apple will announce the HomePod is available for pre-order online in three countries from 26 January 2018, and available in select retail stores in those three countries one week later.
Then, in February 2018, the HomePod will gradually become available in various countries in Europe, starting with France and Germany.
Expected to be priced at US$349, we can expect equivalent pricing in other markets, plus Apple's usual currency buffer of 15%.
Now we just need Apple to bring back the iPod touch as a remote for the Apple TV and HomePod.
Until next time,
Xavier Zymantas
XYZtech
XYZ Media Group
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