Apple unveils HomePod mini 2 with Siri AI and a $50 price hike

Apple has unveiled the second-generation HomePod mini, dubbed the HomePod mini 2, at its Welcome Home event in New York. The upgraded smart speaker retains its similar design to the original but introduces several enhancements, including support for Siri AI through a future over-the-air (OTA) update. The primary feature of the HomePod mini 2 is its impending Siri AI capabilities, which will significantly improve the device's understanding of personal context and knowledge across various subjects.

This will enable users to discover new music and enjoy richer listening experiences. The mini 2 can function as a standalone speaker or as part of a mesh network of up to four units, creating a multi-room stereo system compatible with the Apple TV 4K, Apple Home smart cameras, door locks, and thermostats. The speaker also features an interactive visual lighting effect called Sound Glow, which displays dynamic lighting pulses in sync with audio playback, reacting to changes in bass and treble.

Additionally, the HomePod mini 2 can recognize up to six users in a household and securely connect to their compatible devices, integrating with supported apps and finding answers for user queries on the internet when authorized. Despite its compact size, the HomePod mini 2 delivers impressive acoustic performance, thanks to the Apple S10 chip's advanced computational audio capabilities.

The device is available for pre-order in five color options and priced at $149, a $50 increase from the first-generation model's $99 asking price.

Brief written by urgent.news from TechSpot's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.