iOS beta 11.2 1 was released last night by Apple and the update is actually the start of preparations for the launch of Apple's HomePod smart speaker. Before iOS 11.2 beta 1 was released, Apple updated the firmware of the operating system HomePod, which has been unofficially available since the summer, and is now asking developers to prepare speaker integration.
In a notice sent to its developers, Apple says that iOS 11.2 beta 1 brings SiriKit support to the HomePod, so apps will be able to use Siri to control the smart speaker. Siri from iPhone or Apple Watch can be used to control HomePod through voice commands, but only from applications that have SiriKit integration made for iOS 11.2 or watchOS 4.2.
According to those from Apple, Siri on the iPhone will be able to be controlled through the HomePod to send messages through WhatsApp, add texts to notes and much more. Basically, users only have to be near the smart speaker and the messages they say to the HomePod go directly to the iPhone, which controls various functions based on what is offered by the applications that have integrated support for SiriKit in them.
HomePod will be put on sale at the price of 350 dollars in December, and then we can also expect the release of iOS 11.2, because the speaker cannot offer the functionality without this version of iOS.
