Third beta of tvOS 17.4 brings new references to a HomePod with screen

2024-02-14 13:00:00

The third beta of tvOS 17.4 was released yesterday and, in addition to the more apparent new features, the software code brought more possible references to an unprecedented model of HomePod with a screen. Previously, mentions of a “homeOS” were found in system codes.

As revealed by 9to5Macthe code for the latest beta version of tvOS 17.4 contains references to a new deviceidentified as Z314 and capable of running the system, which could be the new HomePod. Both the Apple TV and the current HomePods work with tvOS, although the speakers do not currently have a screen.

O Z314, according to what was found in the codes, it would work with an A15 Bionic processor, just like the third-generation Apple TV 4K and the sixth-generation iPad mini. Last year, it is worth noting, it was reported that Apple was testing tvOS on the tablet, in order to “simulate” what a HomePod would be like with a display.

The code also revealed that there are versions of this new device for internal use and production under testing, which could be a sign that the device is at an advanced stage of development. SwiftUI tools were also added to the HomePod firmware with the third beta of tvOS 17.4, including a call hang tracerused to fix interface issues in iOS apps.

These additions are very important signs that Apple is planning to launch a HomePod with a screen, considering the tools related to building interfaces. Another finding in the third beta of the latest version of tvOS was that Apple is using an unreleased version of a Mac in internal tests, identified as Mac14,16.

It’s worth noting that this supposed HomePod model with a display is not the same one that leaked at the end of last year with an LCD screen 1 convex at the top. In this sense, Apple would be developing two new versions of the speaker, one to more directly succeed the current model and the other with a larger screen, offering a new experience.

It’s not known exactly when or if the devices will be released, but the new references in the code are an indication that the development of a HomePod with a display is at least progressing.

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