HomePods are already making their mark in new homes across the country — but not in a good way.
Apple customers started noticing that HomePod can damage wood furniture by leaving a white ring after resting on a table for just a few minutes or days.
It’s unclear exactly what causes HomePod to mark its territory on wooden tables. Some HomePod owners on Twitter report that the ring can form in just 20 minutes. It appears that most of the markings go away after a few days.
#homepod left rings on my wood furniture in less than 20 minutes of use. Thanks #apple I am glad a paid $400 to make perfect etched circles on my more expensive furniture. Guess I can not move it now to cover up the mark. Evil geniuses you are. #applesupport pic.twitter.com/eZng16barS
— Guy San Francisco (@Guyinsf415) February 10, 2018
Apple confirms HomePod white rings
Apple confirmed the problem today in a statement to Wirecutter saying “the marks can improve over several days after the speaker is removed from the wood surface.” Apple also suggested owners “try cleaning the surface with the [table] manufacturer’s suggested oiling method.”
If the white rings don’t disappear, Apple says you can just refinish the furniture. Considering most people’s furniture costs more than the $350 speaker though, that’s not a very satisfactory solution.
Apple also recommends putting the HomePod on a coaster if you’re worried about the speaker damaging your table. We’ve reached out to Apple for more details on what causes the white rings to appear. We also asked what type of tables customers should avoid. We’ll let you know when Cupertino divulges more info.
For a full rundown on all the tips, tricks and hidden features on HomePod, check out Cult of Mac’s ultimate HomePod guide.