On the top panel of the speaker, there will be an OLED screen and/or sensors that will support gesture-based control
Xiaomi has patented a smart speaker, which is very similar to the Apple HomePod. Xiaomi has been accused of copying Apple’s design many times, but the company never really bothered.
Xiaomi has copied Apple again. Chinese novelty can not be distinguished from Apple HomePod
The patent was published on the website of the China National Intellectual Property Office (CNIPA), and the attached sketches demonstrate a device that is easily confused with Apple’s proprietary speaker system.
Sources say the new smart speaker will offer surround sound that will spread in all directions, and will also include a touch surface for control. Also, users will be able to use the voice assistant.
Presumably, the top panel of the speaker will have an OLED screen and/or sensors that will support gesture-based control.
If the novelty will be released only in China, then it will be equipped with XiaoAI’s proprietary voice assistant. If the smart column goes outside of China, then it can get support from Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
