A hidden temperature and humidity sensor was found in Apple's HomePod column. Bloomberg reports.
The company does not disclose the features of the device; the secret component of the smart speaker has not been previously reported. IFixit specialists, who dismantled the device at the request of Bloomberg, confirmed the presence of the sensor. It has dimensions of 1.5 by 1.5 millimeters and is relatively far from the rest of the device's components. According to experts, this suggests that the sensor is necessary for measuring the climatic conditions in the room, and not for taking readings of the temperature inside the column.
The part was also examined by TechInsights, who said the component was manufactured by Texas Instruments Inc. and is a digital climate sensor. A similar detail is found in smart home devices, it is necessary for taking readings and controlling other home devices. For example, one of the scenarios for the operation of the device is to turn on the air conditioner when a certain temperature is reached.
Sources from Apple said that the company is discussing the possibility of deep integration of smart speakers into a smart home system. The company has a HomeKit protocol that allows you to organize the operation of smart bulbs, thermostats, fans, CCTV cameras and other gadgets. However, all smart home devices are produced by Apple partners, their number is limited.
Bloomberg reporters have noticed that this is not the first time it has become known about a hidden feature of this or that Apple gadget. For example, in 2008, the company launched an iPod touch with Bluetooth, but only a year later activated this component to work with wireless audio equipment.
At the same time, specifically HomePod, in which the climate sensor was found, cannot be considered a successful Apple product. The company previously pulled the original smart speaker off the market, leaving only its compact HomePod Mini.
