Apple has officially announced the HomePod Mini 2, introducing several hardware updates to its compact smart speaker line. The device features a new internal chip capable of supporting upcoming Siri AI functions; however, both outlets confirm that these AI features will not be functional at the time of the product's release.

The updated speaker includes a new "SoundGlow" feature, which synchronizes the device's LED lights with the colors of the album art currently playing. Additionally, the HomePod Mini 2 offers new functional capabilities, such as the ability to serve as a Mac’s default speaker and the option to pair up to four units with the new Apple TV 4K to create a surround sound system. The device will be available in five colors: pink, green, blue, white, and black.

There is a discrepancy regarding the pricing strategy. The Verge explicitly notes that the new $149 price point represents a $20 increase over the previous model, framing the change as part of a broader trend of rising costs. TechCrunch focuses primarily on the announcement of the price tag itself without explicitly highlighting the price hike relative to the predecessor. The device is scheduled for release on October 30.