Buzz
Here's everything we currently know about the next-generation HomePod mini.
Insights into HomePod mini 2Recalling Apple's HomePod Lineup
Apple unveiled the HomePod mini in October 2020, marking a shift in its smart speaker lineup. Less than six months later, Apple discontinued the original HomePod, making HomePod mini the sole smart speaker in the company's portfolio until the introduction of the new HomePod model earlier this year.
First-generation HomePod mini UnveiledInheriting a plethora of features previously exclusive to HomePod mini, the 2023 HomePod boasts the S-series chip, Ultra-Wideband U1 chip, Thread support, temperature and humidity sensors, and an expanded touch surface with larger backlit areas, illuminating from one edge to another.
Rumors Surrounding HomePods mini 2
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman first uncovered Apple's work on the second-generation HomePod mini in August 2022. Since then, he has expressed skepticism about what the new HomePod mini might offer, stating that the 'latest HomePod doesn't include any significant new features not found in the $99 mini.'
HomePod mini 2 Expected to Debut Next YearIn February, renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicated that Apple would commence mass production of the second-generation HomePod mini in the latter half of 2024.
Rumored Features of HomePod mini 2
The second-generation HomePod mini is speculated to bring a lower-latency Handoff experience, enhanced audio and microphone, and possibly feature the S7, S8, S9, or . The incorporation of a new processor could enable quicker user request processing and improved responsiveness when using the smart virtual assistant Siri.
The new HomePod mini may also witness technical upgrades, such as Wi-Fi 6E support. Currently, the HomePod mini utilizes the S5 chip from and the first-generation Apple Watch SE. Towards the end of 2024, we might see the introduction of the Apple Watch Series 10 and the S10 chip. Therefore, HomePod 2 could leverage this new S-series processor, delivering superior performance compared to its predecessor.
HomePod mini 2 to Feature Advanced CapabilitiesHowever, it's not ruled out that HomePod mini 2 might use an older processor. Recall that the 2023 HomePod uses the S7 chip, the same SoC employed in released in 2021. Although Apple introduced the S8 chip in late 2022 with the Apple Watch Series 8, Apple Watch Ultra, and Apple Watch SE second generation, they opted for the S7 chip in their new smart speaker. This suggests uncertainty about Apple utilizing its latest S-series chip in the second-generation HomePod mini.
The S6, S7, and S8 chips are fundamentally similar, based on the A13 Bionic chip. On the other hand, the anticipated S9 chip is expected to be based on the A15 Bionic chip, leading to significant improvements in performance and efficiency. While the S6, S7, or S8 chips would be a notable upgrade for the HomePod mini, the S9 or S10 chip could bring even more substantial enhancements.
What Colors for HomePod mini 2?
Apple is likely to unveil the new HomePod mini with a variety of youthful color options. The current model comes in Space Gray, Navy Blue, Gold, White, and Orange. With the reintroduction of the full-sized HomePod, Apple swapped Space Gray for Midnight, so a similar change could occur with the new generation of HomePod mini.
HomePod mini 2 to Offer Vibrant Color ChoicesApple might also wait to introduce the new HomePod mini until the launch of the third-generation full-sized HomePod, especially if it includes new features. According to Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is developing an updated version of the HomePod that will have a 7-inch display, expected to debut next year.
