Apple has introduced the HomePod mini 2, a refreshed version of its compact smart speaker with upgraded wireless connectivity, new colors and a visual music effect. The speaker is available to pre-order and launches on Friday, October 30. It will cost $149 in the United States, up from the original model’s launch price of $99 and its later $129 price.

The HomePod mini 2 will not have Siri AI support at launch. Apple plans to add the feature through a future software update, and requests that involve a user’s personal context will require an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad.

HomePod mini 2 features and upgrades

The new speaker uses Apple’s S10 chip, replacing the S5 chip found in the previous HomePod mini. The available information does not establish whether the newer processor enables any computational-audio improvements.

Wireless connectivity receives a more substantial update. The HomePod mini 2 supports Wi-Fi 6E, compared with Wi-Fi 4 on the previous model, and Bluetooth 6 instead of Bluetooth 5. Macs with Wi-Fi 6E or later can also use the speaker as their default audio output.

Apple has added an effect called Sound Glow. The top section of the speaker glows and pulses in time with music playback, giving the device a visual response while it is playing audio.

Apple TV 4K surround sound

The HomePod mini 2 supports a four-speaker surround-sound arrangement when paired with the new Apple TV 4K. Owners can connect four speakers as front and rear pairs to create the configuration.

The speaker has three microphones for Siri, one fewer than the four microphones included in the earlier model. The available details do not explain whether the microphone reduction changes Siri performance or voice pickup.

Colors, weight and price

Two new finishes join the lineup: green and pink. Apple has also listed the HomePod mini 2 as weighing 3% less than the previous model, making the change relatively minor in practical terms.

The combination of Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6 and Apple TV 4K surround-sound support gives the second-generation speaker several notable technical changes. However, buyers interested in Apple’s newer Siri AI capabilities will need to wait for the promised software update rather than access them when the speaker launches.

  • Pre-orders are available, with launch scheduled for October 30.
  • The U.S. price is $149.
  • Siri AI support will arrive in a future software update.
  • New features include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6 and Sound Glow.