HomePod should learn to work with the calendar with the next update

The HomePod smart speaker suffers from many ailments, some minor and some more serious. The main points of criticism, which are repeated in almost all reviews, include a certain limitation of Siri or what it can and cannot do. Compared to the classic Siri in iPhones, iPads and Macs, its functions are quite limited and it can only meet the requirements in a few specific cases. The vast majority of reviewers agreed that the HomePod would be a much better device once it 'matured' a bit and learned the things it can't do yet. As it seems, the first step towards imaginary perfection is approaching.

As for user commands, HomePod can currently respond to SMS, write a note or a reminder. It cannot do more similar functions. However, Apple has been saying since the beginning that Siri's capabilities will gradually increase, and the latest iOS beta version shows which direction that could be.

iOS 11.4 beta 3 is currently available for testing, and compared to its second version, there's one easy-to-miss new feature. A new icon has appeared in the dialog window that appears during the initial setup of the HomePod, indicating the functions that can be used with the HomePod. Until now, we can find an icon for notes, reminders and messages. In the latest beta version, a calendar icon also appeared here, which logically indicates that the HomePod will receive support for working with the calendar with the new update.

It is not yet clear what form this new support will take. iOS beta versions only work on iPhones and iPads. However, owners can expect that with the arrival of iOS 11.4, their HomePod will become a slightly more capable device than it has been so far. iOS 11.4 should be available to the public in the next few weeks. There should be quite a lot of news, but it is still unknown if Apple will delete some of them again at the last minute.

Source: 9to5mac