Apple this week introduced the HomePod mini 2, and MacRumors has rounded up the new features and changes uncovered so far. The HomePod mini 2 can be pre-ordered now and launches Friday, October 30, but Siri AI support will not be available until a future software update.
The upgrades start with the chip and connectivity. The new model uses an S10 chip, up from the S5 in the previous model, though it is unclear whether this enables computational audio improvements. Wi-Fi 6E support replaces Wi-Fi 4, and Bluetooth 6 replaces Bluetooth 5. Macs with Wi-Fi 6E and later can also use the HomePod mini 2 as a default audio output.
The design and sound features include Sound Glow, in which the top area glows and pulses in sync with the music. With the new Apple TV 4K, users can connect four HomePod mini 2 speakers in front and rear pairs for surround sound. The device now has three microphones for Siri, down from four. It also comes in two all-new colors, green and pink, and its listed weight is 3% lower than the previous model.
The main drawback is price. In the U.S., the HomePod mini 2 costs $149, compared with the previous model's initial $99 and later $129.
Source: MacRumors · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing