Apple unveils HomePod mini 2 with S10 chip, priced at $149
Apple introduced the HomePod mini 2 at its smart home event, raising the price to $149 from the original's $99 launch price in 2020. The new speaker features an S10 chip for improved audio performance, smart home alarm detection, a glowing visual display called 'Sound Glow,' and tighter integration with other Apple devices. Siri AI-powered multi-turn conversations were announced but will arrive later via software update, with pre-orders starting immediately and shipping October 30.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The $50 price increase and delayed AI rollout suggest Apple is positioning hardware upgrades ahead of its software capabilities, potentially testing consumer willingness to pay more before the promised Siri improvements materialize. By adding alarm-detection and ecosystem features already common on competing devices, Apple appears focused on closing gaps with rivals like Amazon's Alexa rather than leading with novel functionality.
- HomePod mini 2 costs $149, a $50 increase over the original 2020 model.
- New S10 chip and smart alarm detection aim to match features already on competing smart speakers.
- Enhanced Siri AI conversations were announced without a confirmed release date.
Apple HomePod mini — This is the exact product the article covers, now refreshed with a new S10 chip for better sound and smart home integration. It's a great affordable way to add Siri voice control and multi-room audio to your Apple ecosystem.”
See Apple HomePod mini on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: techcrunch.com — Ivan Mehta, 2026-10-13
Published there as: “Apple refreshes its Homepod mini with a new chip and $149 price tag”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.