HomeKit Insider Podcast
On this episode of the HomeKit Insider Podcast, new Google devices leak for the smart home, we answer a pair of listener questions, and Sonos issues update on its app.
Google is hosting an event in August but we may already know some of its surprises, including a new Nest thermostat and an Apple TV competitor.
The Nest Smart Learning Thermostat is set to launch with new second-generation wireless sensors. It will likely support Matter meaning Nest could work natively in the Home app for the first time.
Other improvements include a refreshed design, a touchscreen, and air quality monitoring. There’s nothing concrete on connectivity, though it will likely be Wi-Fi.
Another Google device is its new streaming box. Google appears to be moving away from an HDMI dongle and instead is launching a flat, white box, similar to Apple TV 4K.
iRobot released its latest smart vacuum and mop this past week, the Roomba Combo 10 Max Robot + AutoWash Dock. It will be the first device to support Matter from iRobot.
In other news, the D-Link Omna companion app is sunsetting on July 31, bringing an end to the very first HomeKit camera. The cameras will still work if you have one, but the app will remove the ability to manage recordings.
Sonos CEO issued an apology for its app rollout and laid out plans for its course correction. The speaker company plans on releases bi-weekly updates with new features and revealed its priorities going into October.
Finally, Wall Street Journal reported that Amazon is readying a paid version of Alexa. Its smart assistant will get AI abilities and may cost up to $10 a month when it launches.
Outside of the news, Danielle sent in a great toothbrush that supports Apple Health and Martin had a pair of questions about backup his smart home.
Links from the HomeKit Insider podcast
Keep up with everything Apple in the weekly AppleInsider Podcast. Just say, “Hey, Siri,” to your HomePod mini and ask it, and our latest HomeKit Insider episode too. If you want an ad-free main AppleInsider Podcast experience, you can support the AppleInsider podcast by subscribing for $5 per month through Apple’s Podcasts app, or via Patreon if you prefer any other podcast player.
