Apple announces the HomePod Mini 2, but it isn’t ready for Siri AI at launch

New York, Tuesday: Apple is set to unveil an array of smart home devices on Tuesday, featuring an iPad-like tablet that hangs on walls or sits on tables, showcasing its AI-enhanced virtual assistant. These gadgets aim to simplify control of doorbells, thermostats, and smart locks, addressing a decade-long struggle Apple has faced in this market. Potential upgrades may also touch upon its HomePod smart speakers and Apple TV devices, according to analysts.

The strategy is part of Apple's broader effort to counter competitors such as Amazon, which has heavily invested in Echo speakers and Ring doorbells, recently launching premium tablets, as well as newer AI-focused startups like OpenAI with their own hardware ambitions. As Apple's reliance on services revenue has drawn increased scrutiny from regulators, investors are increasingly watching the hardware sector for signs of growth.

Apple's journey in the smart home arena began with the 2016 release of its Home app to control smart gadgets, followed by the HomePod smart speakers in 2018. However, these products face stiff competition from Alphabet's Google Home speakers and Amazon's Echo lineup. Analysts highlight two significant hurdles for Apple: ensuring compatibility with various third-party devices and improving Siri's ability to provide useful responses.

Despite a Siri upgrade last summer, bolstered by Google's assistance, the complexity of integrating a smart home remains a challenge for many Apple users. "Advancements in AI could make a difference, but the crucial questions for Apple are if they possess the necessary connectivity expertise to streamline the process and if they're prepared to cooperate across the smart home ecosystem, rather than operating within their own ecosystem," commented Bob O’Donnell, chief analyst at TECHnalysis Research.