Apple is expanding the capabilities of its smallest smart speaker. The HomePod mini 2 features the S10 chip, new colors, and lighting that pulses in time with the music, called Sound Glow. Together with the new Apple TV 4K, you can set up a surround sound system with four HomePods for the first time. The small speaker is also set to serve as the default speaker on Macs in the future. The price is 169 euros.
Even the first Apple HomePod mini impressed in the STEREO GUIDE test with its pleasantly warm sound and an astonishingly wide soundstage in stereo mode. The second generation now primarily expands the range of possible uses: music throughout the house, a home theater setup with front and rear speakers, and a permanent spot on the desk are all part of the announced feature set.
More Computational Magic for the Sound Sphere
Inside the HomePod mini 2 is the Apple S10. The chip handles what’s known as computational audio—that is, the digital signal processing Apple uses to tailor the sound to the music and listening environment. To do this, the speaker analyzes the music in real time and, according to the manufacturer, optimizes dynamic range, volume, and acoustic performance.
The basic concept is still designed to provide sound distribution that is as even as possible in all directions. Apple refers to this as 360-degree audio. The HomePod mini 2 can be used on its own, paired with a second unit to create a stereo pair, or integrated into a multi-room system. This way, the music can stay in the living room or travel through multiple rooms.
Four wins
Probably the most exciting new feature for home theater enthusiasts is the expansion to four speakers. With a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, two HomePods in the front and two more in the back can provide surround sound. According to Apple, the speakers and the TV box work together to detect their positions in the room. Then, the delay times and volume are automatically adjusted accordingly.
When selecting speakers, there’s one clear rule: the front and rear pairs must each consist of identical models. The HomePod mini 2 and the second-generation HomePod are supported. This means, for example, that a setup with two large HomePods in the front and two new minis in the back is also possible. We’ve already tested the large Apple HomePod 2 as a stereo pair.
For the new surround sound setup, Apple specifically mentions the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K running the latest software. Four HomePod mini 2 units cost a total of 676 euros; the TV box is sold separately. The new Apple TV 4K is expected to be available starting November 13.
More Sound at Your Desk
Another new feature relates to use on a Mac. The HomePod mini 2 can serve as the default speaker, handling audio for movies, games, FaceTime, and other video calls. This works with a single HomePod or a stereo pair.
A Mac with Wi-Fi 6E or newer is required. If you plan to use this small speaker as a permanent companion for your computer, you should therefore check your Mac’s Wi-Fi capabilities. The new colors also make it possible to visually coordinate the speakers with your computer.
When Sound Reveals Its True Colors
With Sound Glow, the illuminated top surface takes on an additional function. It glows and pulses in time with the music, reacting in real time to bass and treble. The color scheme is based on the album cover of the song currently playing.
Ambient sounds, such as rain, can also be combined with appropriate animations. According to Apple, if you want to control Sound Glow using voice commands, you’ll need an iPhone with Apple Intelligence and the latest software. This requirement specifically applies to voice control of the lighting feature.
Smart Home at Your Command
The HomePod mini 2 continues to serve as a control center for the smart home. Using Siri, you can control compatible lights, thermostats, blinds, and door locks. In the Home app, multiple devices can be grouped into a scene, and workflows can be automated. As a Home Hub, the speaker also allows you to access your smart home while you’re on the go.
The sound detection feature listens for alarm sounds from existing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If it detects such a signal, it can send a notification to an iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch. You can then use the Home app to listen in on the room and talk to anyone there.
To use this feature, Apple requires the updated Home architecture and the latest software on all participating Apple devices. The feature is intended as an additional notification; Apple advises users not to rely on it in dangerous situations.
Compatible video doorbells and cameras can also be integrated, including devices from the upcoming Apple Home Collection. With HomeKit Secure Video and facial recognition enabled, the HomePod can tell you who’s at the door.
Siri AI is coming later
The U.S. announcement also mentions Siri AI. The revamped assistant is designed to enable more natural conversations and, when paired with a compatible iPhone or iPad, to utilize personal context. A future software update is planned for the HomePod mini 2 to enable this feature.
Apple has announced that Siri AI will initially be available in English in select countries, including the U.S., the U.K., and Canada. Germany is not among the launch markets mentioned. In the announcement, Apple does not specify a date for availability in Germany.
Privacy and Recycled Materials
Regarding data protection, Apple states in its German announcement that it does not store audio content from Siri requests by default. According to the company, the materials used include, among other things, fully recycled rare earth elements in all magnets. Copper, gold for the plating, and solder in the circuit boards developed by Apple also come 100 percent from recycled sources. The paper packaging is fiber-based.
Pricing and Availability
The HomePod mini 2 will be available for pre-order starting October 13, 2026, and will go on sale on Friday, October 30. Apple offers it in pink, green, blue, white, and midnight. The price per unit is 169 euros, including VAT; a stereo pair costs 338 euros. Apple lists HomePod Software 27.2 as the compatible software.
By way of comparison: At the time of our 2022 review, the suggested retail price for the first HomePod mini was still 99 euros. The new Mini thus enters the market at a significantly higher price point. Its most important new features include enhanced surround sound, the ability to use it as a default speaker on a Mac, and Sound Glow.SEO Information
