HomePod 2: Unpleasant Anniversary
Apple had already let the first-generation HomePod gather dust. The second generation looks similar.
Apple's HomePod 2: Already completely outdated again.
(Image: Apple)
A birthday of the annoying kind: In early February, Apple's HomePod 2, the second generation of the manufacturer's larger of the two smart speakers, celebrated its three-year availability without upgrades. So, anyone buying the hardware today gets technology from 2023 – for 349 euros. Whether and when Apple will bring a new model variant to market is unclear, and there are no current rumors about it. However, the situation looks even worse for the cheaper HomePod mini: Apple has not updated this model since November 2020 (!), only providing new color variants meanwhile.
The HomePod 2 was a surprise
Looking back: When the HomePod 2 was launched on February 3, 2023, Apple had already discontinued the 2018 predecessor for a good two years. Accordingly, many rumor mongers were surprised that Apple was adding another one. What appeared was a slightly modernized variant of the very first HomePod: The HomePod 2 received the faster S7 chip, Ultra Wideband support via the U1, a – with some effort – removable power cable, and a humidity and temperature sensor.
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In addition, Apple integrated detection of sounds, such as smoke detector alarms. However, the number of built-in tweeters was reduced, and two microphones were also saved. Other innovations, such as real display, were not integrated. The hardware is still sold today in two color variants: “Midnight” (a black-blue shade) and White.
Devices are slowly saying goodbye
Owners of the HomePod who bought their device upon release have occasionally complained about problems with the display and network connection. A device in the Mac & i editorial office regularly disconnects from the network as a Home Hub (HomeKit control center). In contrast, the issues with the touch sensor, which lead to “ghost sounds” and seem to occur more frequently after several years of use, do not appear to be an issue with the HomePod 2.
Currently, it is unclear how the HomePod will proceed. For many months, there have been rumors that Apple is planning a new model with a display – or an iPad-like HomeKit control device with a speaker dock. However, things have also become quieter in the Apple speculation scene recently. So, HomePod fans need patience. However, you should only buy the outdated hardware if you really need it.
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