While it may be too soon to emphatically categorize Apple’s Homepod as a flop — especially with a more affordable version reportedly in the works — early indications suggest that Apple’s smart speaker hasn’t made much of an impact in the market place.
Pouring a bit of salt on the wound, a new research note from Deutsche Bank ( via Business Insider ) pulls no punches when detailing what many are labeling as a huge missed opportunity for Apple in the smart speaker space.
“However, poor reviews and a significant fall-off in demand post the launch suggest the company has missed the mark.”
Though a stunted version of Siri was a common critique, the HomePod was said to deliver an acoustic experience unrivaled in its price range.
But as impressive as the HomePod acoustics are, it appears that most consumers aren’t willing to spend upwards of $200 more for a better sounding smart speaker when rival devices at a more affordable price point provide “good enough” sound quality and a more versatile intelligent assistant.
As companies like Google and Amazon seek to make inroads into the smart home category via their own respective smart speakers, Deutsche Bank believes Apple with the HomePod made a huge mistake.
“Apple decided to stick with its premium pricing strategy, introducing the HomePod at $349,” the report adds.
- Wish list: HomePod needs an officially adjustable EQ, and much better Siri at WWDCAppleInsider
- Apple Homepod: Fantastic sound from a compact speakerThe Straits Times
- HomePod 'Immaterial' To Apple Sales, Earnings: Deutsche BankBenzinga
- Ad of the Day: Sonos makes of fun of inept smart speakers in latest ad pushThe Drum
- Smart SpeakerBenzinga