Announced at Apple's October iPhone 12 event, the HomePod mini is a brand new smart speaker, a smaller version of the speaker that Apple first released in 2018. With a more compact (and brand new) design, the HomePod mini is also less expensive than its older sibling, and is meant to be not just a great speaker, but a better device for your home.
What's the deal with the HomePod mini?
HomePod mini is a small intelligent speaker that's controlled by Siri. Its much smaller than the original HomePod, and comes with a number of new sensors and capabilities that make it a lot smaller, too.
Just how 'mini' is it?
HomePod mini is 3.3 inches tall.
What are the details on the speaker of HomePod mini?
Like the original HomePod, HomePod mini focuses on 360-degree sound, powered by Apple's computational audio work. This means that HomePod mini sonically analyzes its environment to produces the best sound for the room it's in.
Can I control it with a "Hey Siri" command?
Yep. HomePod mini has a three-microphone array to listen for commands. Of course, Apple stresses that nothing you say leaves the HomePod until you've issued a command.
What processor does it use?
Interestingly, HomePod mini doesn't use the an A-series processor. Instead, it uses the S5 computer-on-a-chip found in the Apple Watch Series 5.
What new features come with HomePod mini compared to the original HomePod?
HomePod mini works a lot more seamlessly with other Apple devices, including the iPhone and other HomePod minis. For instance, while you can easily pair a couple of HomePods together into a wireless pair, HomePod mini can handle that process automatically. Put two HomePod minis in the same room, and they'll become a stereo pair on their own.
What is the Intercom feature?
Intercom is a new feature being introduced with HomePod mini. It allows you to communicate with people in your family using your HomePod mini. You can send an Intercom message with one person, or with every HomePod mini in the home. Additionally, Intercom messages can be sent from CarPlay or your iOS devices. If someone you want to contact is using AirPods, they'll get your messages there.
What colors does it come in?
Just like the original HomePod, HomePod mini comes in White and Space Gray.
How much does HomePod mini cost?
Each HomePod mini will run you $99.
When can I get HomePod mini?
HomePod mini will be available for order on November 6, and orders will ship and the speaker will arrive in stores on November 16.
Are you excited about the HomePod mini?
Lets us know in the comments below.
