Apple has unveiled an updated version of its HomePod mini smart speaker. The device marks the first major refresh of the line in nearly six years.
At the heart of the refresh is the S10 chip, a processor Apple says was designed to improve acoustic performance, dynamic range, and loudness. The same S10 silicon previously appeared in the Apple Watch Series 10, linking the speaker’s audio upgrades to a broader family of Apple devices. Alongside the chip, Apple introduced a feature called Sound Glow, a visual interface that uses LEDs on the speaker’s top surface to sync with music. Those LEDs can also mimic album artwork, giving the mini a subtle, reactive glow that changes with the rhythm of what is playing.
Apple announces HomePod mini 2 at $149. https://t.co/izO3fOQuxq
The HomePod Mini 2 is built to work more closely with other Apple products. It can pair with the Apple TV 4K and serve as the default speaker for a Mac, a role that lets users route system audio through the speaker without extra configuration. For Macs that support Wi-Fi 6E, the speaker can function as a wireless audio endpoint, taking advantage of the newer wireless standard. When combined with the new Apple TV 4K, up to four HomePod Mini 2 units can be linked to create a surround-sound setup.
Beyond audio, the speaker uses this silicon to help improve dynamic range, loudness, and acoustic performance.
The S10 chip serves as the primary hardware upgrade inside the HomePod Mini 2. Beyond audio, the speaker uses this silicon to help improve dynamic range, loudness, and acoustic performance. The chip also lays the groundwork for future Siri AI capabilities, although those features are not present at launch.
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Apple has set the price of the HomePod Mini 2 at $149 USD. This represents a $50 increase over the original model. The speaker will be offered in five colors, with preorders opening immediately and shipping beginning on October 30.
While the hardware is ready, the Siri AI enhancements are not. The HomePod Mini 2 will support multi-turn conversations and sound detection similar to features found on Alexa devices, but only through a future software update. To use those capabilities, owners will need an Apple Intelligence-compatible iPhone.
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Alongside the speaker, Apple announced additional home-focused hardware. The HomeView smart display carries a price tag of $299 USD, and the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K is also listed at $299 USD.
As of the shipping date, the Mini 2 is available for purchase with its upgraded chip, visual Sound Glow, and Mac-centric audio features.