Apple has released a new version of its small smart speaker, the HomePod mini 2, in five different colors during its “Welcome Home” event, following several weeks of speculation.
The HomePod mini 2 will eventually include support for Apple’s AI assistant, Siri, powered by Apple Intelligence, although this feature will not be available upon the speaker’s initial launch on October 30th. Apple has not specified the exact release date, only mentioning that it will be included in a forthcoming software update.
You will require a device with Apple Intelligence, such as a newer iPhone or iPad, to update the HomePod mini 2 with Siri AI when the time comes. Once activated, the HomePod mini 2 can identify six users’ voices and utilize data from their connected devices to assist with tasks like finding recommended songs or adding items to a grocery list, according to Apple.
Those without a compatible device for Apple Intelligence can still ask HomePod mini 2 questions and play music, but they won’t experience the same level of personalized integration.
The HomePod mini 2 is powered by the Apple S10 chip and offers 360-degree sound. It illuminates at the top with colors matching the album art of the songs playing and pulsates in rhythm with the beat, a feature known as “Sound Glow” by Apple.
Apple has introduced a new smart display called HomeView and an updated Apple TV 4K that come with Siri AI. Additionally, they have launched a range of smart home security devices in collaboration with LG and Schneider Electric. The HomePod mini 2 can function as a voice-controlled center for these devices, and when combined with the Apple TV 4K, multiple HomePod mini 2 units can be used to set up a surround-sound system for a home theater.
The HomePod mini 2 is also compatible with Apple’s Mac desktop computers.
The HomePod mini 2 is priced at $149, which is $20 higher than the original HomePod mini released in 2020. Despite a $30 price jump in June due to memory shortages, both models share a similar design resembling a small orb with mesh fabric covering.
- Apple introduces HomeView smart display featuring Siri artificial intelligence.
- Apple introduces the latest version of Apple TV in 4K.
- Apple introduces Home Collection, a line of innovative smart security devices developed in partnership with LG.
The HomePod mini 2 can now be preordered in various colors from the Apple Store, including pink, green, blue, white, and midnight.
Apple might have more announcements this month, with rumors suggesting the launch of an OLED touchscreen MacBook and a new OLED iPad mini by the end of October, in addition to the upcoming release of the foldable iPhone Duo on Oct. 23.
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Haley Henschel is a Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable in Chicago. She reviews and discovers discounts on various tech products and has expertise in evaluating what items are worth purchasing during shopping events like Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day. Her work also delves into the factors influencing digital trends in the shopping realm.
