HomePod mini 2 brings Siri AI and surround sound to Apple's small speaker
Apple has introduced the HomePod mini 2, a long-awaited refresh of its compact smart speaker. The new model keeps the original shape but adds the S10 chip, Siri AI support, and compatibility with four-speaker surround sound when paired with a new Apple TV 4K. Siri AI will not be available at launch and initially supports English only, and it requires an Apple Intelligence-capable iPhone or iPad.
The HomePod mini 2 arrives six years after the first model and keeps the same footprint. Inside, Apple moves from the S5 chip to the S10 Apple Watch processor, while adding Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6, Thread, and an Ultra Wideband chip for proximity tasks. It is priced at $149 and adds pink plus more neutral color options.
Siri AI will roll out later and initially only in English, requiring an Apple Intelligence-capable iPhone or iPad. The speaker can recognize up to six household members and reach apps including Messages, Music, Calendar, Mail, and Contacts. With a new Apple TV 4K, matching pairs can form four-speaker surround; original HomePod mini units are not supported in that setup.
The update may matter most to Apple households already invested in iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV, since Siri AI depends on compatible devices. It could make voice assistants more conversational in shared spaces, but the delayed English-only launch may limit early benefits for multilingual homes. Four-speaker surround could encourage incremental purchases, while the $149 price and ecosystem requirements may keep some budget-conscious buyers with rivals.