The HomePod is dead, long live the HomePod: Apple has again expanded its speaker portfolio with a large model that will be available in parallel to the remaining HomePod mini. The design of the second HomePod generation is identical to the cylindrical shape of the discontinued predecessor, and Apple is once again focusing on the sound quality.
Like the HomePod 1, the new version of the Siri speaker adapts the sound to the installation location in real time and plays music in 3D audio (Dolby Atmos), as Apple announced.
HomePod now with S7 chip
The HomePod 2 is equipped with five tweeters instead of the previous seven, and the manufacturer promises a high-excursion woofer to deliver rich bass again. Instead of the A8 chip, the company is now installing the “S7”, similar to the HomePod mini, a systems-in-package (SiP) that is also used in the Apple Watch. This should improve the computer-aided sound image. A new feature is the integration of the U1 ultra-wideband module, which facilitates the transfer of music played on an iPhone when approaching.
As before, two HomePods can be stereo paired and AirPlay 2 can control multiple HomePods with other speakers in a multi-room setup. The voice assistance system Siri is also on board, which distinguishes up to six voices for control in larger households.
New sensors and smart home features
Apple plans to add sound detection via a software update this spring to notify iPhone users of activated smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. A temperature and humidity sensor is now also officially on board. According to teardowns, such a room climate sensor is also in the HomePod mini. This should enable automation in the smart home. The new HomePod also supports the Thread mesh network protocol and serves as a home hub for Apple Home as well as a Thread border router. The HomePod is also compatible with the smart home standard Matter.
The HomePod 2 goes on sale on February 2nd and is compatible with iPhones and iPads with at least iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 respectively. As with the first generation, the price is 350 euros. There is no special price for the purchase of two loudspeakers. The smart speaker is still available in black (“Midnight”) and white.
(lbe)
