At a smart home event held on Tuesday, Apple unveiled an updated version of its HomePod mini alongside its new HomeView device. While the HomeView drew significant attention, the company also announced substantial upgrades to its popular smart speaker, including a new processor and upcoming artificial intelligence capabilities.
Priced at $149, the second-generation HomePod mini represents a $50 increase over the original model introduced in 2020. The device now features Apple’s S10 chip, which enhances audio performance by optimizing dynamic range, volume, and acoustic output.
The updated speaker improves upon its safety and utility features, gaining the ability to detect specific sounds such as smoke alarms and alert users via their phones—a functionality that has been available on competing devices like Amazon Echo for years. Additionally, Apple emphasized better interoperability with its own ecosystem. Users can now configure up to four HomePod mini units as a surround sound system paired with the new Apple TV 4K, or designate the speaker as the default audio output for Mac video calls and music playback.
Visually, the device introduces a feature called “Sound Glow.” This function transforms the top of the speaker into a dynamic light display that pulses and glows in sync with the music, utilizing color palettes derived from album artwork. Users can also trigger animations by selecting ambient soundscapes, such as ocean waves or rain.
Looking ahead, Apple confirmed that the HomePod mini will support Siri AI, enabling multi-turn conversational interactions. However, the company did not release a specific timeline for when this feature will roll out to consumers.
The new HomePod mini is available in five colors: pink, green, blue, white, and midnight. Pre-orders begin today, with general availability starting October 30.
Siri AI sounds promising, but no release date is frustrating. I hope they don’t make us wait another year for actual conversational capabilities.
Four HomePods for surround sound with the new Apple TV? Now that is a setup I can get behind. Audio quality is finally catching up.
Smoke alarm detection was long overdue. Why did I have to wait six years for this basic safety feature? Amazon had it ages ago.
The Sound Glow feature is actually kind of cool! Finally, some personality in these speakers. Can’t wait to sync it with my music.
Fifty dollars more feels steep for a speaker upgrade. I wonder if the S10 chip really justifies that price hike compared to the competition.