According to a published list by the U.S. Patent Office, Apple recently received a patent for the technology of the HomePod smart speaker. In this patent, HomePod is equipped with a new smart camera, with which the device can provide a more intelligent human-computer interaction experience by capturing the user's gaze and expression through intelligent facial recognition. For example, in an environment with multiple people, through the intelligent recognition function of the camera, HomePod can determine which person in the environment a command came from and provide smarter services based on user preferences. By capturing the line of sight, users can operate directly without accurately stating the name of the device, simplifying the process.
Of course, the security of the camera-mounted HomePod has also been questioned because it can sense changes in the environment at any time, frequently capture photos and videos, and can access the user's home network.
In fact, so far Apple in the intelligent voice assistant has not appeared too prominent breakthroughs, compared with the high-profile MR devices and other projects, HomePod seems to be snubbed, although in the sound performance and intelligence is highly praised, but in sales are not optimistic, there is also news that Apple for other product production line shelving HomePod production, not paying attention to the degree of attention.
Combined with Apple's revelation of the HomePod screen some time ago, Apple may likely make some structural improvements on the new HomePod, and whether the installation of screens and cameras can reverse the current decline of the HomePod, we continue to pay attention.