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HomePod Mini 2 first look: Three things I love and one disappointment

Devices1 min read

Apple has released the HomePod Mini 2, a $149 smart speaker. A reviewer says it is much faster than the first version, though it has one big letdown.

What happened

Apple launched the HomePod Mini 2 at its Welcome Home event. It costs $149. A reviewer tested two units in a home office and wrote a first look. She was disappointed at first, but she became more excited after using it for a few days.

Key facts

  • The original HomePod Mini launched at $99. The new one costs $50 more.
  • Siri usually responds in under three seconds on the Mini 2. The first Mini could take up to 10 seconds.
  • The new speaker uses the S10 chip, up from the S5, and supports Wi-Fi 6E, up from Wi-Fi 4.
  • Siri AI, the biggest planned upgrade, is not available yet. Apple says it is coming later in a software update.

Why the speaker changed

The HomePod Mini is Apple's entry-level smart speaker. It is a small speaker that works with a voice assistant called Siri. The first version came out six years ago. The second version mainly adds a faster chip, new colors, and better AirPlay, which is Apple's way of streaming audio between devices. The sound system did not get an upgrade.

Why it matters

Speed is a big deal for people who use voice assistants every day. Faster replies make the speaker feel more useful. The missing sound upgrade and the delayed Siri AI are the main reasons some buyers may wait.

What to watch

  • When Apple releases the Siri AI software update.
  • How well Siri AI answers harder questions, such as election results.
  • Whether the new green and other colors sell well.

Glossary

HomePod Mini 2
Apple's new small smart speaker that plays music and answers voice commands.
Siri
Apple's voice assistant that answers questions and controls smart home devices.
Siri AI
A planned upgrade to Siri, not yet available, that Apple says is coming in a software update.
AirPlay
Apple's system for sending music, video, and other audio from one device to another.
Wi-Fi 6E
A newer, faster wireless internet standard that helps devices connect quickly.
S10
The newer, faster computer chip inside the HomePod Mini 2.

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