Apple launched the HomePod in 2017 as the corporate’s first good speaker, however it wasn’t too widespread, and it was quietly discontinued in 2021. Now the HomePod is again, and Apple hopes you’ll really purchase one this time.
The second-generation HomePod seems to be an identical to the unique speaker, with the identical spherical design, mesh speaker protecting, and contact panel on the highest. You’ll be able to ask Siri to start out taking part in one thing, or choose the speaker as an AirPlay goal from a appropriate Apple system. In comparison with the unique mannequin, Apple has added temperature and humidity sensors, affirmation tones for some Siri requests, and Matter help.
The HomePod has a “custom-engineered high-excursion woofer, highly effective motor that drives the diaphragm a outstanding 20mm, built-in bass-EQ mic, and beamforming array of 5 tweeters across the base,” all powered by an S7 chip — the identical chip that powers the Apple Watch Collection 7. Identical to the unique mannequin, the HomePod adjusts sound over time based mostly on the partitions and furnishings within the room, “immersing listeners in crystal-clear vocals and wealthy instrumentation.”
Sadly, the brand new HomePod nonetheless isn’t as versatile as different good audio system working Google Assistant or Alexa. The specs web page says it’s appropriate with Apple Music and “third-party music companies” — assuming it’s the identical because the HomePod Mini, that provides you iHeartRadio, Radio.com, Deezer, TuneIn, Pandora, and Amazon Music. There’s no native help for YouTube Music, Spotify, or different widespread companies. You can also’t use it as a Bluetooth speaker, like most Alexa and Google audio system.
The brand new HomePod seems to be like a superb good speaker… so long as you’re already neck-deep within the Apple ecosystem. It’s available to order now for $299 — a $50 drop from the primary mannequin’s value — and can begin transport to consumers on Friday, February 3.
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