Apple launched the HomePod mini 2 yesterday (Pre-order here), exactly six years after the first HomePod mini launched. Here is everything new in HomePod mini 2 compared to the original model.
Siri AI vs. the old Siri, plus microphone changes
HomePod mini 2 supports Siri AI, bringing similar capabilities found in iOS 27 to Siri on your HomePod. This includes extensive global knowledge, the ability to have natural conversations, and enhanced musical discovery. In addition, the support of personal context means that you can ask about the music recommended by friends through Messages, get important information stored in your email, etc.
The original HomePod mini won’t support Siri AI, leaving it stuck in the old Siri
Siri AI won’t be available immediately when the HomePod mini 2 ships, but is expected to arrive as a software update next month.
Additionally, while it’s unclear if performance will be affected, the HomePod mini 2 has three remote microphones for interacting with Siri, down from the four offered on the HomePod mini.
New S10 chip vs S5
The original HomePod mini had a very outdated S5 chip, which is not surprising since it is a 6-year-old device. But the new HomePod mini 2 runs a more modern S10 chip.
The S10 is the main reason HomePod mini 2 supports Siri AI while the original model does not. Apart from that, Apple did not offer specific details about the expected performance improvements. However, it is possible that the sound experience will be upgraded. According to Apple’s press release:
Powered by the Apple S10 chip and advanced computer audio, (HomePod mini 2) analyzes music in real time to adjust dynamic range, loudness and sound performance.
Apple hasn’t specifically said that computer audio will improve over what previous models offered, but it’s certainly possible. We will have to wait for the review to know for sure.
A loud voice
Sound Glow is a new feature that makes the top of the HomePod mini 2 come alive in response to the music it plays. to Apple:
With Sound Glow, the top of the HomePod mini transforms into a visual canvas that glows and pulsates in sync with the music, reacting in real-time to bass and treble. Albums of songs from Now Playing will create a lighting experience that matches the unique colors of every song, and users can choose a soundscape like rain to trigger custom animations for a relaxing atmosphere.
Apple ecosystem features: Mac startup speakers and Apple TV 4K surround sound
HomePod mini 2 includes two special features of the Apple ecosystem that were not present in the original HomePod mini. One is for Mac users while the second is related to the new Apple TV 4K.
- Mac: HomePod mini 2 can be set as the default speaker for your Mac, either as a single speaker or a stereo pair. The original HomePod mini can only be used as a Mac speaker via AirPlay, so the connection is not consistent and permanent.
- Apple TV 4K: If you have the new 4th generation Apple TV 4K, you can use the new HomePod surround sound feature for your TV. With surround sound, your Apple TV can use four HomePod mini 2 speakers for its audio output. You can also mix and match the larger HomePod 2, for example, with two HomePod 2 devices as front speakers and HomePod mini 2 stereo pair as rear speakers.
Design Update: New colors and Siri animations
It goes without saying, but one major difference between the HomePod mini 2 and the original model is the new color.
- HomePod mini 2: blue, green, midnight, pink, white
- HomePod mini: blue, midnight, orange, white, yellow
Green and pink are notable additions, but the new blue is different from the previous color.
In addition, HomePod mini 2 has a new design for movement on the top of the device. Basically, the new Siri AI theme replaces the old Siri feature from the original HomePod mini.
Wireless connection upgrade
HomePod mini 2 comes with upgrades to both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards:
| HomePod mini 2 | HomePod mini |
| Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) |
| Bluetooth 6 | Bluetooth 5 |
The HomePod mini 2 is available for pre-order for $149 and ships on October 30.
Are you planning to upgrade to HomePod mini 2? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.
