Apple discontinued the original HomePod smart speaker in 2021 in favor of a cheaper mini version. Now, after nearly two years, the Cupertino company has announced its second-generation HomePod with a refined design and a promise of incredible audio quality and intelligence. The speaker comes with a slew of new features, including upgraded audio, an S7 chip, and more smart home abilities. Continue reading to find out its specifications and pricing.
Design-wise the new HomePod looks similar to the original model with a few changes here and there. It has transparent mesh fabric and a backlit touch surface that illuminates from edge to edge. It will be available in White and Midnight colors. The touch surface can also be used to activate the Siri voice assistant.
To deliver high-quality audio, the new smart speaker is equipped with an array of five tweeters around the circumference. With its in-house S7 processor and built-in sensors, the HomePod can carry out its own computational operations to maximize its capabilities. It can detect sound reflections and adapt itself based on where it is placed. Beamforming is used in the device to direct ambient audio and deliver spatial audio.
The HomePod can be used as an in-home intercom system to broadcast messages. A software update coming later this spring will allow the new HomePod to listen for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and notify you if it hears anything. There are built-in temperature and humidity sensors that can be used as triggers for smart home automation.
Similar to the original HomePod, two speakers can be arranged into a stereo pair or used as speakers for the Apple TV 4K. The 2nd Gen HomePod has been launched with a price tag of $299. It will be available for purchase in the US, UK, India, Japan, Spain, and 11 other markets.
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