Apple schedules HomePod for February 9, delays stereo and multi-room features

Following a delay from the HomePod’s originally promised December 2017 release date, Apple today announced that its smart speaker will debut in the U.S., U.K., and Australian stores on February 9, with preorders starting this Friday, January 26. Customers in France and Germany will be able to purchase the HomePod this spring.
Apple describes the $349 HomePod as offering a “magical new music experience,” combining high-quality audio with Siri voice controls. At 7 inches tall, wi