APRIL 2018 | MANE PRODUCT & TECHNOLOGY | 7
Google Home Max
down and less capable than Siri on iPhone. Apple has decided not to include voice recognition at launch – something the iPhone and iPad have – but may introduce the feature in a future firmware update. Siri on HomePod does support HomeKit meaning you can control your smart devices with your voice. HomePod is also a little more restrictive than other smart speakers in that you need an iOS device to setup the HomePod – an Android device Is not compatible. On the Music front, Apple Music is the default and only streaming service available to use by voice natively on the HomePod – other streaming services can be used by manually pushing the audio to the HomePod via AirPlay on the iPhone or iPad.
There are shortcomings with the HomePod, but one area it absolutely shines is in the audio department. Many reviewers have stated that the HomePod is the best sounding table-top speaker available, some have said Google Home Max edges it out ever so slightly, but it may be due to the fact that it gets louder than the HomePod. The HomePod offers 360 degree sound that listens and adapts to its environment meaning it should sound the same no matter
where you are in the room. The Google Home Max only offer omnidirectional sound, so while it sounds great when you’re right in front of it – it may sound off when you’re on the side of the device.
The HomePod’s amazing audio quality and dumbed-down voice assistant features may be why Apple is marketing it as a speaker first and foremost. If you’re invested in Apple’s ecosystem and in the market for a home speaker then the HomePod is an absolute buy. If you’re looking for more smart speaker capabilities, you aren’t an audiophile and don’t want to shell out too much cash you’re better off with the Amazon Echo or Google Home. ■
HomePod, Google Home & Amazon Echo comparison video by UrAvgConsumer